MyPillow founder holds narrow lead in crowded GOP field ahead of 2026 race

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — MyPillow founder Mike Lindell has taken the lead in the Republican primary for Minnesota governor, according to a new poll released in May 2026.

The Big Data Poll shows Lindell narrowly ahead with 21.3% of the vote in a competitive field. He holds a slight edge over his closest challenger, Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth, who sits at 19.4%.

The survey indicates Lindell performs strongly among rural and working-class Republican voters, while Demuth draws more support from college-educated and urban primary voters.

Lindell, a prominent businessman and vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump, officially entered the race for governor earlier this year. His campaign has focused on election integrity, economic issues, and conservative values.

The Republican primary is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched contests in Minnesota, as the GOP seeks to regain the governor’s office in the 2026 election cycle.