Get the New and Improved DX App
National
Lindell Doubles Down On Amnesty Plan — They “Never Have To Leave”
Dallas Express | Jul 23, 2026
Mike "Pillow Man" Mandell | Image by Mike Lindell for governor/website
Mike Lindell, the Trump-endorsed Republican candidate for Minnesota governor, defended a controversial immigration proposal he unveiled during a recent
interview, insisting it does not amount to amnesty despite increasing criticism from some who argue that it conflicts with long-held Republican positions on illegal immigration.
As previously
reported by
The Dallas Express, Lindell proposed giving illegal aliens six months to register with the government, submit fingerprints, undergo background checks, and receive a conditional work visa. Applicants would not receive citizenship or voting rights, but the work visas would not expire, and they would “never have to leave,” according to Lindell.
Following the backlash, Lindell posted an AI-generated graphic on X reading, “AMNESTY FOR 6 MONTHS?!” alongside a message urging voters to “Learn the REAL TRUTH” about his platform. The post has since been deleted after a flood of critical replies.
Speaking at a town hall after his proposal gained attention, Lindell defended the plan by arguing, “These people have only committed a misdemeanor, maybe, by not going back.”
Lindell’s latest comments have done little to quiet criticism from Republicans, many of whom argue the proposal amounts to amnesty because it would allow illegal aliens to remain in the United States indefinitely.