Trump delivers primary day boost to Mike Lindell in Minnesota governor’s race

By Easton Martin | August 11, 2026

Voters across Minnesota are casting their ballots today in the state’s primary election, where a crowded field of candidates is competing for the Republican nomination for governor. Among the contenders, MyPillow founder Mike Lindell enters primary day maintaining a solid lead in public polling.​

Lindell received a boost on Tuesday morning when President Donald Trump reiterated his endorsement on social media. Trump called on Minnesotans to cast their votes for Lindell, praising his work ethic and dedication to election integrity. Trump previously endorsed Lindell in July, cementing his standing with the president’s base.​Polling data leading into election day consistently places Lindell at the head of the Republican primary pack.

SurveyUSA polls conducted over the past month show Lindell holding the lead with roughly 34 to 35 percent of likely voters. Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth follows in second place, while Kendall Qualls trails in third.​The traditional polling points to a Lindell advantage, but recent volatility in online betting and prediction markets show a reversal in odds. It is important to note though that prediction market swings are not indicative of voter intent.

Unlike registered voters, prediction markets reflect capital movements and speculative bets rather than actual ballots.​Much of the recent activity on prediction platforms like Kalshi stems from targeted promotion. Kalshi has sponsored paid promotions through social media influencers, driving an influx of capital into the market and causing rapid price adjustments. These speculative movements show the impact of paid marketing campaigns rather than a genuine shift in voter sentiment.

Traditional polling remains a far more accurate metric for gauging where the electorate stands.​With polls closing tonight at 8:00 p.m. local time, election officials will begin processing ballots to determine whether Lindell’s polling lead translates into the Republican nomination for governor.