Former professional wrestler and former Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura has endorsed Democratic Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz for reelection, saying democracy is "beneath assault" and praising Walz's management in the course of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ventura, who considers himself an impartial and was elected governor as part of the Reform Occasion, stated in a video posted to Walz's Twitter account that he hardly ever makes endorsements.
"However this election is simply too essential. That is why I am endorsing Governor Tim Walz for reelection," Ventura stated.
"Minnesota faces a alternative this election, and we're at a crossroads. That is why I am taking the unprecedented step to endorse Tim," Ventura stated.
Ventura, who was Minnesota governor from 1999 to 2003, harkened again to Jan. 6, 2021, when former President Trump and his "cronies" determined to "unfold the Large Lie," as Ventura put it.
"I took an oath 50 years in the past as a Navy SEAL to defend this nation," Ventura stated. "I am unable to stand with anybody or any half who can't condemn the Jan. 6 rebellion."
Ventura additionally stated "ladies's rights are beneath assault throughout this nation," and stated Walz will defend entry to reproductive medical care.
"This November, I will be casting my impartial poll for Governor Tim Walz," Ventura concluded.
Walz referred to as the endorsement an "honor."
"I am dedicated to being a governor for all Minnesotans, and I will work with anybody who's prepared to work with me to get issues achieved," Walz tweeted. "Thanks, Jesse, for taking the unprecedented step to solid your impartial vote for me!"
Walz will face off towards Republican Scott Jensen on Nov. 8. Polls present Walz with round an 8 level lead within the race, though a ballot by the Republican pollsters Tralfagador Group launched a ballot earlier this month with Jensen main by one.
Hillary Clinton gained Minnesota in 2016 by lower than two factors — a shock for a state that had a repute for being a strong blue state. Trump was bullish on flipping state in 2020, however finally, President Joe Biden gained it by seven factors in 2020.
Ventura gained fame for his wrestling within the Nineteen Seventies and Eighties, earlier than diving into politics within the Nineteen Nineties. Ultimately, he grew to become pals with then-New York actual property developer Donald Trump. In 2015, Ventura stated he was open to being Trump's vice presidential working mate. However by a number of years later, Ventura was calling Trump a "con man president."
