Overview
- A citizen complaint filed July 22 alleges Mike Lindell and aides handed out small pillows labeled “Mike Lindell for Governor” at parade events and that each pillow was worth about $35.
- Minnesota law bars giving items of monetary value to influence voting, and the complaint says the pillow giveaways violate that Fair Campaign Practices rule.
- The matter reached an administrative law judge Monday in a telephone hearing that will determine within three days whether there is probable cause for a deeper investigation.
- Lindell has told the judge he acted lawfully, said his campaign sought guidance from the state campaign finance board before the giveaways, and described the items as small promotional pillows similar to hats or shirts.
- The case arrives during early voting for the Aug. 11 GOP primary with Lindell a leading candidate who has President Trump’s endorsement, and the outcome could shape campaign messaging and voter perceptions ahead of the nomination.