Topic overview
In brief
- A judge found probable cause that Mike Lindell violated campaign laws by distributing promotional pillows.
- The pillows were given away during a July Fourth parade in Delano, Minnesota, and were valued at $34.95.
- The case will proceed to an evidentiary hearing with a panel of administrative law judges.
Summary
In Minnesota, a case against Mike Lindell, a Republican gubernatorial candidate, is progressing after a judge determined there is probable cause to believe he violated campaign laws. This decision came after a complaint was filed on July 22, alleging that Lindell distributed pillows promoting his candidacy during a July Fourth parade in Delano, Minnesota. The pillows, which were valued at $34.95, featured the phrase 'Mike Lindell for Governor' and were reportedly thrown to parade spectators. Lindell confirmed that he and his campaign staff handed out these pillows, which were purchased wholesale for $4.90 each. He also mentioned that the pillows could be bought with a promo code for $9.95, indicating an effort to comply with campaign regulations. Minnesota law prohibits offering anything of monetary value to influence a voter's decision, classifying such actions as a felony. However, the law does allow for the distribution of food or refreshments valued at up to $5 at public or private gatherings. During the hearing, Lindell presented affidavits, an invoice for the pillows, and photographs from the campaign event to support his case. Despite these efforts, Judge Nicholas Lienesch concluded that there is sufficient evidence to proceed with the case, which will now be reviewed by a panel of three administrative law judges. The date for the evidentiary hearing has yet to be determined. Lindell, who recently stepped down as CEO of MyPillow, is a prominent figure in the Republican gubernatorial race and has received an endorsement from former President Donald Trump. He has been a vocal supporter of Trump, often repeating unfounded claims regarding the 2020 election being stolen.