Mike Lindell, widely known as the “Pillow Man,” has announced that he is stepping down as CEO of MyPillow to focus entirely on his campaign for governor of Minnesota.
In a post on X, Lindell described the move as “one of the biggest decisions” of his life.
“Today, I’ve made one of the biggest decisions of my life. I’m stepping down as CEO of MyPillow so I can devote 100% of my time and energy to my campaign for Governor of Minnesota.
Minnesota deserves my full attention, and that’s exactly what I’m giving it. I’m all in, and I can’t wait to earn your vote.”
The announcement accompanied a company press release confirming that Lindell has resigned as chief executive and reduced his ownership in MyPillow to a minority stake so he can dedicate himself full time to the gubernatorial race. He will remain on the company’s board of directors and continue as a shareholder in the business he founded in 2004.
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MyPillow said its day-to-day operations will now be led by James “Jim” Furlong, who served as the company’s president from 2004 to 2019 and played a key role in growing the Minnesota startup into a nationally recognized brand. Furlong has returned as CEO to oversee the transition.
“After 22 years of leading MyPillow, I know the company is ready for its next chapter and I know Minnesota cannot wait,” Lindell said. “This decision is not about walking away. It is about stepping forward to serve. I am putting Minnesota above myself, my title, and my business interests so I can give this campaign and the people of our state my full time, energy, and attention.”
Lindell said the leadership transition reflects the values he hopes to bring to public office, including building a strong team, protecting Minnesota jobs, making difficult decisions, and remaining accountable for results.
“Real leadership means knowing when to lead, when to trust your team, and when to put a larger calling first,” he said. “I trust Jim and the Board to protect our employees, our customers, and our Minnesota roots. My focus now is clear which is to listen to Minnesotans, earn their trust, and work every day to become a governor worthy of our state.”
According to the company, the executive change will not affect MyPillow’s manufacturing, product offerings, customer guarantees, or Minnesota-based workforce. The Chaska, Minnesota-headquartered company, founded in 2004, said it will continue normal operations under its new leadership.