Judge finds probable cause Mike Lindell broke campaign finance rules with pillow handout

August 7, 2026 - 04:39

A Minnesota judge has ruled there is probable cause to believe that MyPillow founder Mike Lindell broke campaign finance rules when he handed out free pillows at a political event. The case will now move forward to a three-judge administrative panel, which will hold a hearing to collect additional evidence and decide whether formal penalties are warranted.

The complaint stems from a 2020 event in which Lindell distributed pillows to attendees who had gathered for a campaign stop. According to the initial filing, the value of the pillows given away exceeded what is legally allowed for in-kind contributions to a candidate or political committee. The judge's finding does not determine guilt, but it clears the way for a deeper review of the facts.

Lindell, a prominent supporter of former President Donald Trump, has denied any wrongdoing. His legal team has argued that the pillows were a promotional gesture tied to his business, not a coordinated effort to influence an election. The administrative law panel will now hear testimony and review documents before making a final recommendation. That process could take several months. If the panel finds a violation, Lindell could face fines or other corrective action, though no criminal charges are expected from this civil proceeding.