For the Tribune

As is befitting his independent reputation, Albert Lea legislator, Dan Dorman was mistaken for both a Democrat and Republican vice president in a matter of minutes on a recent &uot;Tonight Show with Jay Leno.&uot;

In the popular, &uot;Jaywalking&uot; segment, Minnesota resident Tyler, was shown a photo of former Vice President Dan Quayle. Unable to name the former VP, Jay Leno gave the contestants a hint: &uot;His first name is Dan,&uot; Leno said.

&uot;Is it Dan Dorman?&uot; asked Tyler.

&uot;Who’s Dan Dorman?&uot; replied a befuddled Leno.

A few moments later, Tyler was shown a photo of former VP Al Gore.

&uot;Is that Dan Dorman?&uot; asked Tyler.

&uot;No,&uot; laughed Leno, &uot;That’s not Dan Dorman either.&uot;

Who is Dan Dorman?

Leno may be surprised to know he is a fellow Harley Davidson rider and legislator who has been criticized by both Democrats and Republicans for his independent streak and moderate views.

&uot;The Tonight Show with Jay Leno&uot; is a frequent stage for political theater, including Arnold Schwarzenegger s announcement of his gubernatorial race, and frequent visits from former Minnesota governor Jesse Ventura.

When informed of his mistaken identity, Rep. Dorman said, &uot;I am surprised by the comparison to the former vice presidents, because I didn’t invent the Internet, and I can spell potato.&uot;

Dorman, the owner of a successful tire dealership, went on to say, &uot;If Jay Leno’s shopping for tires for his huge car collection, he should stop by my tire shop. We’re running a sale.&uot;