HOME  E-DEMOCRACY 98  E-DEBATE WEB MN-FORUM

Jesse Ventura      Response 2

Question 2: Evaluate the performance of the press in covering the on-going presidential scandal, the private lives of politicians, and please indicate whether or not you consider yourself a role model.

Both Democrats and Republicans are disgusting the public with 
their antics.

The press has bought into the theme and only amplify the 
unseemly aspects of it all. The people are deciding for 
themselves what to think. I have little to add, except that it 
demonstrates once again that our nation would be better served 
if we had a third major-party alternative to the Democrats and 
Republicans.

In my answer to your Y2K question, I suggested that the 
Governor can set a leadership example. That's true, but that's 
different than setting a personal moral example.

For me, being Governor is a professional endeavor. My private 
life is just that. Private. Like any human being, I have my set 
of family values and moral views. But unlike a lot of 
politicians, I believe such things are private matters.

Religious organizations are especially interested in the role 
model question you raise. I'll say to you what I say to them.

I can only be myself.

As a radio talk show host, movie star, and former pro wrestler 
of national renown, I am well acquainted with the role model 
aspect of fame. If there is one example I want to set, or one 
lesson I want young people to know, it's this: Be yourself.

Everyone is good at something. Do what you have the gifts to 
do. Know what you believe and act in accordance with your 
beliefs. You'll mess up every once in a while. We all do. But 
if you know who you are, it's easier to get back on track.

As a high-visibility person or an ordinary Joe, I can only be 
myself. If that's not good enough for those who want me to be a 
role model, there are other candidates in the race and other 
role models to choose.