Lindell would probably have lost badly to the likely Democratic gubernatorial nominee, Amy Klobuchar, in November.

Lindell, of "MyPillow," plays up his ties to Trump, who endorsed him for Tuesday's primary. But the state Republican convention backed one of his opponents.

Lindell had President Trump's endorsement but he lost to Lisa Demuth, the speaker of the state house. She'll face Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar in the fall for governor.

President Donald Trump backed “Pillow Man” Mike Lindell as his pick to replace Gov. Tim Walz (D-MN), who opted not to seek reelection.

The Associated Press called the race for the Minnesota House speaker at 11:26 p.m. with 45.1% of the vote to Lindell's 31%.