The Governor has been perpetually frustrated by those who continually fueled such groundless speculation. His repeated denials were dismissed out of hand. For whatever reason, the media kept fanning the flames of a story that simply wasn't there. Many people simply refused to take the Governor at his word. That's understandable with most career politicians.
Politicians often lie to reporters.
But it's not a valid with Jesse Ventura. Jesse Ventura's word is good. He says what he means, means what he says, and acts in accordance with his words. Additionally, most reporters failed to see the evidence that was there for all to see. The Governor's political staff actively discouraged draft Ventura movements wherever they popped up.