|  |
|
| |
By: Seventh of Seven
Date: 11/4/98 1:15:55 AM
# Replies: 1
(CNN AllPolitics, November 3) -- Reform Party candidate Jesse Ventura, once a pro wrestler known for his spoiler tactics in the ring, shocked his two rivals -- Democrat Skip Humphrey and Republican Norm Coleman -- to win Minnesota's governorship.
Many voters were drawn to Ventura's off-the-cuff wit, tough political stances and push for quality education across the state, including a return to more neighborhood schools. In one of his final television ads, a Ventura action figure doll fought off Evil Special Interest Man.
"I like Jesse because he wasn't mixed into that political scene," said Ken Purmort, a 52-year-old graphic artist who voted for Ventura.
The race was open because Republican Gov. Arne Carlson was not seeking re-election.
Humphrey, the state's attorney general and son of the late vice president, was the early favorite because of his famous name and because he oversaw Minnesota's $6.1 billion settlement of a lawsuit against the tobacco industry.
Coleman, the St. Paul mayor, was a former Democrat and Humphrey protege who switched to the GOP two years ago. He was re-elected last year. His base in normally Democratic St. Paul, combined with his electoral experience and solid support within his adopted party, made him a very serious contender in the fall.
Besides being a professional wrestler (known as Jesse "The Body" Ventura), Ventura has been a Navy SEAL, a talk-show host, an actor in movies such as "Running Man," and mayor of a Minneapolis suburb. He and his family spent the final days of the campaign on an RV tour from St. Paul to southern Minnesota and the Iron Range.
Response #1
By: Da Sissop
Date: 11/6/98 8:58:01 PM
(Reuters Nov. 4) - * Jesse Ventura -- former ``bad boy'' on the pro wrestling circuit, action-flick actor, Navy SEAL, and talk radio shock jock -- says he's ready for a new nickname. He doesn't want to be called ``the Body'' any more. ``I'm Jesse the Mind now,'' he said Wednesday.