Former Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura made headlines this week by publicly supporting protesters who confronted Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents at his former high school in Minneapolis. The 74-year-old former professional wrestler turned politician visited Roosevelt High School to express solidarity with demonstrators who opposed ICE operations on campus on Thursday.
Ventura’s appearance at the school comes amid heightened tensions over federal immigration enforcement activities in Minneapolis, marking another chapter in the ongoing national debate over immigration policy and enforcement tactics.
Jesse Ventura shared his thoughts about the ICE shooting in Minneapolis and a confrontation between ICE officers and staff at Roosevelt High School on Wednesday. pic.twitter.com/QWML36MY3H
— FOX 9 (@FOX9) January 8, 2026
Constitutional Concerns Drive Former Governor’s Stance
During an interview with Fox 9, Ventura framed his support for the protesters in constitutional terms, arguing that current federal leadership has abandoned foundational American principles. The former Reform Party governor, who served from 1999 to 2003, characterized the situation as a violation of constitutional protections typically taught in educational institutions.
Ventura emphasized his belief that schools should remain sanctuaries for learning, particularly when it comes to understanding constitutional rights and legal protections. He argued that ICE operations on school grounds contradict the very principles students are taught about warrants and due process.
The former governor’s comments reflect broader concerns among education advocates and civil rights groups about immigration enforcement in educational settings. Many argue that such operations create fear among immigrant communities and disrupt the learning environment for all students.
Sharp Criticism of Current Political Leadership
Ventura delivered pointed criticism of the current administration, drawing on his military service to contrast his own background with that of political leaders. The former Navy SEAL referenced his 17 months of service in Southeast Asia, using this experience to support his assertion that America has adopted characteristics of developing nations.
🔥🤣 OMG..SO NOW JESSE VENTURA WHO THINKS THE GOVT KILLED JFK, HATES THEY WERE SPYING ON US & HAD HIS FEMA CAMP EPISODE PULLED OF TV…WANTS TO RUN FOR GOVERNOR OF MINNESOTA?
He’s walking around Minnesota today & TRUSTS Democrat commies and endorsed Kamala & Walz LAST YEAR.… pic.twitter.com/Q6lRY9n18I— Johnny St.Pete (@JohnMcCloy) January 8, 2026
His critique centered on what he described as the militarization of domestic law enforcement, comparing current immigration enforcement tactics to police-military operations he witnessed overseas. This perspective aligns with longstanding debates about the appropriate role of federal agencies in local communities.
The former governor also referenced the January 6, 2021, Capitol riots in his broader criticism of the Republican Party, suggesting that recent events have fundamentally altered his view of major political institutions. This stance reflects Ventura’s history as an independent voice who has consistently criticized both major political parties throughout his career.
Political Comeback Speculation Emerges
Beyond his support for the protesters, Ventura made intriguing comments about his political future, suggesting he might consider returning to elected office. The former governor indicated he believes he is “owed a second” term, though he did not provide specific details about potential campaign plans or timelines.
Ventura’s single gubernatorial term from 1999 to 2003 was marked by his outsider status and unconventional approach to politics. Running as a Reform Party candidate, he defeated both major party nominees in what many considered one of the biggest political upsets in Minnesota history.
His decision not to seek reelection in 2003 was voluntary, making his current comments about a potential return particularly noteworthy. Any comeback attempt would likely focus on his independent political brand and criticism of traditional party politics.
Jesse, the body Ventura is the hero American needs now more than ever https://t.co/HlI2JJsWiy pic.twitter.com/mwhcK8y7CD
— OntheSheasLongue (@shea_tee) January 8, 2026
Support for Current Democratic Leadership
Despite his criticism of federal leadership, Ventura expressed continued support for current Minnesota Democratic officials. He specifically endorsed Governor Tim Walz, whom he previously supported in the 2022 election cycle, and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey.
This selective endorsement pattern illustrates Ventura’s approach to politics, which has consistently prioritized individual candidates over party affiliation. His support for these officials appears tied to their handling of local issues rather than broader partisan considerations.
The former governor’s backing of Walz and Frey suggests he views state and local Democratic leadership as more aligned with his constitutional concerns than current federal administration policies.
Roosevelt High School Connection
Ventura’s personal connection to Roosevelt High School added emotional weight to his appearance at the protest site. As an alumnus, he expressed particular pride in the school community’s response to federal enforcement activities.
The former governor took time to reminisce about his high school achievements, including athletic records he set as a student. This personal touch highlighted his deep ties to the Minneapolis community and provided context for his investment in the current controversy.
Roosevelt High School has become a focal point in Minneapolis immigration debates, with community members arguing that educational institutions should remain neutral spaces focused on learning rather than enforcement activities.
Broader Immigration Enforcement Debate
The incident at Roosevelt High School reflects wider national tensions over immigration policy implementation. Educational institutions across the country have grappled with questions about cooperation with federal enforcement agencies and protection of student populations.
Many school districts have adopted policies limiting cooperation with immigration authorities, arguing that enforcement activities undermine educational missions and create fear among students and families. These policies often generate controversy and legal challenges.
Ventura’s intervention in this local dispute brings national attention to these ongoing debates about the appropriate balance between immigration enforcement and educational access.
Political Impact and Future Implications
Ventura’s public stance on the ICE protests could influence broader political discussions in Minnesota and beyond. His unique position as a former governor with military credentials and an independent political identity gives weight to his constitutional arguments.
Any potential political comeback by Ventura would likely reshape Minnesota’s political landscape, given his history of disrupting traditional party dynamics. His criticism of both federal leadership and support for local Democrats suggests a complex political positioning that could appeal to various voter segments.
The former governor’s involvement also highlights ongoing tensions between federal and local authorities over immigration policy implementation, an issue likely to remain prominent in upcoming election cycles.
As immigration enforcement continues to generate controversy in communities nationwide, Ventura’s intervention represents one example of how local political figures are positioning themselves on these contentious issues. His constitutional framework for opposing certain enforcement tactics may influence how other politicians approach similar situations in their own jurisdictions.