James George Janos, better known as Jesse Ventura, is an American politician, actor, author, and former professional wrestler who served as the 38th Governor of Minnesota from 1999 to 2003.
Born July 15, 1951 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Ventura served as a Navy UDT member during the Vietnam War, and later as mayor of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota from 1991 to 1995. In 1998, In a major upset, Ventura narrowly defeated both the Democratic and Republican candidates for Governor. He was the first and only candidate of the Reform Party to win a major government position. In his role as governor, he was known for both his independence and combativeness with political parties and the press.
December 8, 1998 - MPR’s Martin Kaste reports that Governor-elect Jesse Ventura says he intends to keep working in the entertainment business, even after he takes office. Ventura is in the process of closing a deal to tell his life story in a ghost-written autobiography. Ventura calls it a "standard" book contract, and he says he doesn't think he's cashing in on being the governor-elect.
December 15, 1998 - Students who say they're concerned about cuts in financial aid, cheered as Governor-elect Jesse Ventura told them they should pay for college themselves. Ventura told students at North Hennepin Community College in Brooklyn Park that they'll enjoy their education more if they earn it. MPR’s Tim Pugmire interviews a couple students after event to get their take.
December 30, 1998 - MPR’s Martin Kaste reports on that Governor-elect Jesse Ventura spoke to reporters about his agenda for the 1999 legislative session, which begins next week. But Ventura did NOT get very specific, and he stopped short of presenting a short list of his legislative goals.
December 31, 1998 - MPR's Michael Khoo reports on Governor-elect Jesse Ventura meeting with "disenchanted voters." Ventura met with thirteen randomly selected Minnesotans who voted for the first time, or for the first time in several years, to understand what worked to draw voters out this year and what would keep them engaged in the future.
December 31, 1998 - The sweepstakes for “Biggest Minnesota News Story” of 1998’ is no contest. Jesse Ventura's upset victory in the race for Governor was such a shock, his success caught almost everybody by surprise…the media, the political parties, and especially his opponents. MPR's Martin Kaste looks back on Ventura's rise.
January 5, 1999 - MPR’s Gary Eichten interviews Governor Jesse Ventura, who discusses officially taking on his new role. Topics include local politics, social programs, taxes, regulations, and Governor’s residence. Ventura also answers listener questions.
January 18, 1999 - MPR’s Laura McCallum reports on Jesse Ventura’s lively inaugural bash as the 38th governor of Minnesota. Segment includes sounds and music clips from the event.
February 5, 1999 - MPR New’s John Rabe interviews Garrison Keillor on his new satirical book, Me, that seems to parody Jesse Ventura.
March 5, 1999 - Chicano-Latino community leaders in Minnesota are hoping Governor Jesse Ventura's administration will usher in a new era for Hispanics, and possibly open doors for future cabinet positions. They invited the governor to a reception at Boca Chica, a west side St. Paul restaurant that's been a hub of local Latino culture and politics for over 30 years.
April 14, 1999 - Governor Jesse Ventura visits the MPR studios to talk about his first 100 days in office and answer listener questions.