MyPillow creator Mike Lindell announced Tuesday afternoon that he is stepping down as the company's CEO in order to devote his full attention to his gubernatorial campaign in Minnesota.

Lindell, who has secured President Donald Trump's backing, is hoping to replace Minnesota Democratic Gov. Tim Walz in the post. Walz announced in January that he was not seeking a third term, opting instead to focus on investigating large-scale fraud cases involving billions of dollars in misused federal and state program funds.

"After 22 years of leading MyPillow, I know the company is ready for its next chapter and I know Minnesota cannot wait," Lindell said in a statement. "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 James Furlong, who served as MyPillow's director from 2004 to 2019, will take over as CEO. 

The move comes as his candidacy faces pushback from the Minnesota Republican Party, which endorsed retired health executive Kendall Qualls in the primary. The party has largely opposed Lindell over residency concerns because he was also recently a resident of Texas.

Lindell, who also faces Minnesota House Speaker Lisa DeMuth in the primary, has pushed back on the criticism, stating that he was "born and raised" in Minnesota and has completed the residency requirement.

The Republican primary will take place next week on Aug. 11.

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.