January 6, 1999 - As the state legislative session begins, many interest groups are still waiting to see what stands Governor Jesse Ventura will take on specific issues but supporters of industrial hemp already know exactly how the governor stands on their issue. During his campaign, Ventura spoke out clearly in favor of legalizing industrial hemp, and he's reaffirmed his position since then. Hemp promoters now see new hope for what they call a promising and environmentally friendly alternative crop.
January 6, 1999 - Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura made a flurry of appointments today as he tries to fill dozens of vacancies in his new administration.
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 4, 1999 - 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.: Live Coverage of the Inauguration of Governor Jesse Ventura. We'll have live coverage of all the color and ceremony.... the swearing in of Governor Ventura and Lt. Governor Schunk and the other constitutional officers and live interviews with former Governors, the Speaker-elect Steve Sviggum and Senate Majority Leader Roger Moe. Also includes Wendell Anderson and Al Quie.
January 4, 1999 - Media from around the world and across the nation covered the inauguration today, continuing their fascination with Jesse Ventura.
January 4, 1999 - Jesse Ventura is now the Governor of Minnesota. Ventura was sworn into office today in a traditional inaugural ceremony at the State Capitol, marked by the presence of actor Arnold Schwarzenegger and several hundred enthusiastic Ventura supporters. Ventura promised to be honest with Minnesotans, and to try to keep young voters involved in politics.
January 4, 1999 - Governor-elect Jesse Ventura kicked off two weeks of inaugural activities over the weekend. On Saturday, he released a bald eagle at the Isaac Walton Reserve in Brooklyn Park, then had a potluck lunch with Twin Cities-area farmers, which organizers billed as "Ag 101". Ventura didn't spend much time campaigning on agricultural issues, but is trying to get up to speed quickly on farm policy.
January 4, 1999 - Minnesota's six new constitutional officers take office over the noon hour today -- and for the first time in the state's history, a national television audience will be watching the swearing-in ceremony. The focus of all the extra attention, of course, is Governor-elect Jesse Ventura. The colorful former pro wrestler is a natural media personality -- just as he was a natural campaigner last fall. What kind of governor will he make?
January 4, 1999 - Today's inauguration was heavy on ceremony and light on policy. Past Governor's have said it is usually the day AFTER such an event that the enormity of the job really SINKS in for a new governor. REACTION following today's event ranged from awe by Ventura supporters, to mild curiosity by tourists, to the wait-and-see attitude of some lawmakers.
January 4, 1999 - Those who gathered to hear Governor Ventura's inaugural speech today didn't hear his legislative blueprint. Instead, Gustavus Adolphus political scientist Chris Gilbert says they heard a sort of motivational speech for the state.