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Jesse Ventura

Jesse Ventura is an American politician, former professional wrestler, actor, broadcaster, and author.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Jesse Ventura is an American politician, former professional wrestler, actor, broadcaster, and author. He served as the 38th governor of Minnesota from 1999 to 2003 after being elected as the Reform Party candidate. Before entering politics, he served in the U.S. Navy and became known in professional wrestling as Jesse “The Body” Ventura.

Early life and military service

Born in Minneapolis, Jesse Ventura served six years in the U.S. Navy, including service in the UDT/SEAL community during the Vietnam War era. After his military service, he later became a professional wrestler.

Professional wrestling and entertainment

Ventura became known in wrestling as Jesse “The Body” Ventura and worked as both a performer and commentator, especially in the WWF/WWE. He also appeared in films and worked in radio and television.

Political career

Ventura entered politics by winning the mayoralty of Brooklyn Park in 1990. He later won the Minnesota governorship in 1998 as the Reform Party candidate and served from 1999 to 2003.

Later career

After leaving office, Ventura remained active in media and public life. He continued to write, broadcast, and make public appearances, and he has remained a notable independent political figure.

Key facts

  • Won the 1998 Minnesota gubernatorial election as a Reform Party candidate in a major upset.
  • Served one term as governor (1999–2003) and did not seek re-election.
  • Previously served as mayor of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota (1990–1995).
  • Gained fame as professional wrestler Jesse “The Body” Ventura and later as a commentator.
  • Served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War era.
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Canadian context

Ventura is mainly relevant to Canadian readers as a well-known U.S. political outsider and media personality whose career crossed wrestling, entertainment, and elected office.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Jesse Ventura?
Jesse Ventura is an American former wrestler, actor, broadcaster, and politician who served as governor of Minnesota from 1999 to 2003.
What is Jesse Ventura's real name?
His birth name is James George Janos.
What political office did Jesse Ventura hold?
He was the 38th governor of Minnesota.
What party did Jesse Ventura represent when elected governor?
He was elected as the Reform Party candidate in 1998.
Was Jesse Ventura in the military?
Yes. He served in the U.S. Navy, including service associated with Navy UDT/SEAL units.
What was Jesse Ventura known as in wrestling?
He was known as Jesse “The Body” Ventura.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Jesse-Ventura
    Supports: Birth name, birthplace, and service as governor of Minnesota from 1999 to 2003.
  2. WWE — https://www.wwe.com/superstars/jesseventura
    Supports: Wrestling career, ring name, WWE Hall of Fame induction, Navy veteran status, and later political career.
  3. Minnesota Legislative Reference Library — https://www.lrl.mn.gov/mngov/govbio?govid=6
    Supports: Biography, Navy service, wrestling career, mayor of Brooklyn Park, and election as governor.
  4. National Governors Association — https://www.nga.org/governor/jesse-ventura/
    Supports: Birthplace, Navy service, education, mayor of Brooklyn Park, and governorship.
  5. Harvard University Institute of Politics — https://iop.harvard.edu/fellows/jesse-ventura
    Supports: Election as governor, Reform Party affiliation, and pre-governorship career details.
  6. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jesse_Ventura
    Supports: General biographical overview, wrestling, acting, and political career details.