Former MN Gov. Jesse Ventura Endorses Incumbent Tim Walz

MINNEAPOLIS — In a rare move, former Minnesota governor Jesse Ventura endorsed Tim Walz on Thursday.

Ventura, an Independent who served as Minnesota's governor from 1998 to 2002, said he rarely endorses candidates from any political party.

"But this election is too important. That's why I'm endorsing Governor Tim Walz for reelection," Ventura said.

"When COVID-19 hit, Tim was there to keep our state safe. That's the governor's most important job."

Ventura, a former Navy SEAL, said he took an oath fifty years ago to defend the country. "I can't stand with anyone or any party who cannot condemn the Jan. 6 insurrection," Ventura said.

"What an honor! Thrilled to be endorsed by @GovJVentura," Walz tweeted. "I'm committed to being a governor for all Minnesotans, and I’ll work with anyone who’s willing to work with me to get things done. Thank you, Jesse, for taking the unprecedented step to cast your independent vote for me!"

The Republican Party of Minnesota attacked Walz for touting the endorsement of "a well-known extremist and conspiracy theorist who has claimed 9/11 was an inside job, stating on national television that the government 'wanted it to happen.'"

"As a Vietnam veteran, I am appalled that Gov. Tim Walz would seek and tout the endorsement of such a discredited conspiracy theorist," said Republican Party of Minnesota Chairman David Hann in a statement.

"Jesse Ventura claimed 9/11 was caused by the government and that all of our country’s wars were started under false pretenses. This endorsement is an embarrassment and shows that Walz is losing and desperate for support. Tim Walz owes every military family and those of 9/11 victims an apology."