Dean Malcolm Barkley, a trailblazing American attorney and politician, has left an indelible mark on the political landscape of Minnesota. Born on August 31, 1950, Barkley's remarkable journey began with his founding and chairmanship of the Minnesota Reform Party, later renamed the Independence Party.
His appointment as chairman of Jesse Ventura's successful gubernatorial campaign in 1998 marked the beginning of a fruitful partnership. Ventura would later appoint Barkley as director of the state's Office of Strategic and Long Range Planning, a testament to his exceptional leadership skills.
In the aftermath of Senator Paul Wellstone's tragic death in a plane crash just weeks before the 2002 election, Ventura entrusted Barkley with the responsibility of filling Wellstone's Senate seat. Although his tenure was brief, Barkley's dedication and commitment to public service were evident.
Throughout his political career, Barkley has demonstrated a willingness to take risks and challenge the status quo. He has run for office four times, inspired by Ross Perot's 1992 presidential campaign. His first foray into politics was an independent bid for Congress in Minnesota's 6th congressional district, although he ultimately lost.
Undeterred, Barkley continued to pursue his political ambitions, running three times for the U.S. Senate in Minnesota. In 1994, 1996, and 2008, he received 5%, 7%, and 15% of the vote, respectively. While these campaigns did not yield the desired outcome, they serve as a testament to Barkley's perseverance and unwavering dedication to his beliefs.
Despite the challenges he has faced, Dean Malcolm Barkley remains an important figure in Minnesota politics, his legacy a reminder of the power of courage, determination, and a commitment to public service.
