MyPillow founder and election integrity activist Mike Lindell announced Wednesday that he is prepared to spend “upwards of $1 million” to conduct a private recount of the Minnesota Republican gubernatorial primary ballots. The move comes despite his 11-point loss to state House Speaker Lisa Demuth, a defeat he refuses to accept.
In a press release Tuesday, Lindell framed the effort as a broader fight against electronic voting systems. “Even if this recount and audit does not overturn my election for governor of Minnesota, I believe this is the gateway to getting rid of these electronic voting machines,” he wrote.
Lindell has repeatedly questioned the integrity of voting machines since former President Trump’s 2020 loss, and he continues to push for hand-counting ballots. His latest proposal involves a full hand recount and audit of the primary results, a process the Minnesota Secretary of State’s office estimates will cost around $825,000.
But Lindell says he’s willing to exceed that figure to hire additional workers to oversee the recount. He faces a Monday deadline to submit a bond, cash, or surety to the state, as reported by NBC News. Lindell told the outlet he plans to “personally go in there myself” to deliver the official request.
The announcement adds another layer to Lindell’s ongoing legal and financial troubles. He currently owes election technology company Smartmatic $56,369 in sanctions from a defamation lawsuit, stemming from his false claims about its machines. After refusing to pay, he was held in civil contempt, accruing a $500 daily fine that his lawyers argue he cannot afford.
On Wednesday, Lindell’s attorneys filed a motion with U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Bryan to reconsider the ruling that held him liable for defamation. That motion is separate from the recount effort but underscores the mounting pressure on the businessman.
The Minnesota primary is one of several closely watched contests this cycle. While Lindell’s challenge is unlikely to change the outcome, it reflects a broader trend of election skepticism within parts of the GOP. In other races, Trump welcomed the defeat of a prominent critic in Florida’s Senate primary, and Alaska’s governor primary is shaping up with a top-four system that could alter the general election dynamics.
Lindell’s insistence on a private recount also comes as state officials prepare for the general election. His efforts have drawn both support and criticism, with some praising his determination to ensure accuracy and others dismissing his claims as unfounded.
As the Monday deadline approaches, all eyes will be on Lindell’s next move. Whether the recount proceeds and what it might reveal remains uncertain, but his willingness to spend seven figures underscores his commitment to the cause.
