What do people from Minnesota (or nearby states) think of Ventura?

[Onlooker]

I've heard that Ventura is no longer popular in Minnesota. Is that true? Does his endorsement carry weight? Will his endorsement carry weight in other states, such as Wisconsin?

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

1. He still has a following.

Not exactly a cult following, but some people (mostly young men) who don't like politicians still think favorably of him. He got a lot of young people excited about politics for the first time, and used the Internet very effectively. Because MN has same-day registration, a lot of people registered just so they could vote for him. And, of course, this totally fooled the pollsters (a lesson for compulsive poll-watchers). I give him and his handlers a lot of credit for that campaign. Unfortunately, he was better at campaigning than at governing, and his popularity waned when it looked like he was more interested in grandstanding than in doing the dull grunt-work involved in running a state. Still, the endorsement could be positive, depending on the reasons he offers, and might influence some of the same otherwise-disaffected, non-wonkish people who aren't affiliated with a party.

[whodiedandmadeUSgod]

6. I think you are right about retaining support from

young men. His endorsement may influence my brother whom is probably voting Bush.

[Wickerman]

2. He was my Gov for several years

and I disliked him. I had no idea that I would one day yearn for the days of Jesse, but I do also fault him somewhat for the mess we are in. He gave us pittances of tax-refunds (Jesse Bucks :eyes:) which drained state coffers of any real rainy day money.

Today, I think he is doing what he does best - being a media hound.

http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/news/politics/9988679.htm

-snip-
"He came here today and he didn't just happen by," King said.

Organizers didn't even know for sure if Ventura was going to show up until the news conference started. He was sporting his new braided beard look, with black pants, a Navy hat, a black SEAL T-shirt and white tennis shoes.

He just shook his head when reporters asked him questions and motioned toward King.

Followed out to his car by reporters afterward, Ventura said he would be doing interviews in Los Angeles.

[ollie3]

3. Love him or hate him, Jesse has a following....

And his endorsement will be a plus among those who consider themselves independents.

[Wickerman]

7. Good enough for me

and I'm guessing most of the rest will ignore the endorsement. The good news too is that many Rethugs went the way of Jesse. Don't know if they are still there, but he did collect many.

[whodiedandmadeUSgod]

4. I liked Ventura until Paul Wellstones death 2 years ago

Jesse had to appoint someone to fill Wellstone's senate seat until someone new was elected. Instead of selecting a Democrat he picked an Independent. He announced his selection at the exact time that Mondale/Coleman were debating to protest the fact the Independent candidate was not invited to the debate. I don't remember who he was but he readily caved and voiced support for Bush's Homeland Security Bill which was a big issue at the time. Jesse seemed very immature during this time.

[Barney Rocks]

5. most people I talk

to think he is a little bit nutty.

He may still have a good following among the people who follow wrestling.