Jesse Ventura roots for Trump, open to being running mate

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Former Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura says he hopes Donald Trump wins the Republican nomination for president — and that he would be open to running as his vice president.

The former pro wrestler's support for Trump comes despite some major political differences, including on immigration. The billionaire businessman has taken a hardline stance on immigration, calling for the deportation of all 11 million people estimated to be living in the country illegally.

By contrast, Ventura lives in Mexico and has criticized Trump for his remarks about immigrants. Ventura says immigration status should not affect employment in the U.S.

The St. Paul Pioneer Press says Ventura talked about Trump on his Internet TV show "Off the Grid." Ventura has previously endorsed Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders for the Democratic presidential nomination.