Ventura To Step Out Of The Ring

Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura announced Tuesday he will not seek a second term, saying his heart is no longer in the job.

Ventura, the former professional wrestler who upset the political establishment with his victory in 1998, also said he was tired of attacks on his family. His announcement came amid reports that his son, Tyrel, used the official governor's residence for weekend parties throughout his term.

"I am not seeking reelection right now," Ventura said in an interview broadcast live on Minnesota Public Radio. "I will not run again."

Four years ago in November, running as a third party candidate, he defeated well-established Democratic and Republican front-runners.

Ventura said he made his decision a few weeks ago but didn't want it to overshadow his recent trade trip to China. But he also cited what he called "silliness" in the reporting about his son's use of the governor's residence.

"I will always protect my family first," he said.

CBS News Political Director Dottie Lynch says Ventura was in constant fights with the media, his poll ratings had declined, and for the past few months it had appeared he wouldn't run.

A story Tuesday about his son wrecking the governor's mansion seems to have provided the impetus for Ventura to say enough is enough.

If Ventura doesn't change his mind before a July 16 filing deadline, it almost certainly will mark the end of Minnesota's three-way government. He was elected as a member of the Reform Party, though he later split for a new party, the Independence Party.

Lynch predicts the next gubernatorial election in Minnesota will be a two-party race, with no strong independent like Ventura. "We will return to politics as usual in Minnesota," Lynch said.

Ventura's 3½ years have been marked by scuffles with Democrats, Republicans and the media, whom he branded "jackals."

He presided over four legislative sessions, including three in which the state's budget had a surplus and he directed refunds paid in what he dubbed "Jesse Checks." In 2001, he and Republicans crafted sweeping reforms of the state's property tax.

But last year's recession pushed the state's budget into deficit, and legislators in the most recent session rejected Ventura's remedy that included tax increases and spending cuts.

The policy clashes were coupled with attacks on Ventura's personality and outside activities, including a TV announcing job with the short-lived XFL football league.

Most recently, former employees at the governor's mansion criticized Ventura's son for having parties and making a mess at the facility.

"It's difficult to do these public service jobs when you know your family could be assassinated by the media at any point, deservedly or undeservedly," Ventura said.

Ventura didn't say what he would do in private life. He said he was "honored" to have served the people of Minnesota.

"I'm kind of like Ché Guevera," he said. "I lead the revolution but at some point I turn it over to someone else."