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WSW: Republican Congressional candidate Jim Bussler

Photo provided by Bussler campaign

Jim Bussler is challenging Congressman Fred Upton in this summer's Republican primary

In an interview with WMUK's Gordon Evans and Kalamazoo Gazettereporter Yvonne Zipp, Bussler says he's running because Congress has infringed on personal liberty in many ways. That includes making it possible to spy on the American people. He says Upton is among the members of Congress who has consistently voted for increased surveillance programs. 

On many issues Bussler holds positions similar to to those of former Republican Congressman and Presidential candidate Ron Paul. Bussler wants close down the Federal Reserve and the IRS. He also wants to abolish the federal income tax. 

jimbussler020313-web.mp3
Extended interview with Jim Bussler - web version

Bussler's campaign website also includes a section on "getting the government out of food." Bussler proposes closing down the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Department of Agriculture. He says the agencies have not made food any safer, and mostly protect big corporate interests. 

The latest campaign finance reports show Upton with a large fund raising advantage over Bussler (Federal Elections Commission report on Bussler and Upton). Bussler acknowledges that the $1600 he has raised so far isn't much to challenge a long-time incumbent. The registered nurse from Dowagiac says he won't get money from corporations and wants to combat "crony capitalism." Bussler accuses Upton of catering to special interests. 

Bussler says he plans to knock on doors and do much of his campaigning in person. At the end of the day, he says the people will decide. But Bussler says his campaign gives people a choice. 

Gordon Evans became WMUK's Content Director in 2019 after more than 20 years as an anchor, host and reporter. A 1990 graduate of Michigan State, he began work at WMUK in 1996.
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