A Pot Legalizing Republican too

Tom Emmer, libertarian-conservative for Minnesota Governor has a full-time state representative as his statewide campaign manager. Rep. Mark Buesgens is described by his GOP primary opponent Tom Rees, a former legislator, as a highly skilled political operative, but perhaps a bit too over-extended.

But it is Buesgen's views on the proper role of state government that has Rees most concerned.

From the St. Paul HometownSource.com, July 15:

Additionally, Rees argues that Buesgens is less conservative than libertarian.

He is especially troubled, Rees explained, by Buesgens’ attitude towards state parks.

During a House floor debate last March, Buesgens, asked by a Duluth lawmaker whether he would be willing to close and sell the state parks, replied “Yes.”

Buesgens is viewed as a bit of a edgie rightwinger on other issues, as well.

From the Minn. Post June 3 "Tom Emmer's campaign manager is a non-traditional choice -- and a non-traditional Republican":

He's not so much right of center as he is an outspoken libertarian, who frequently does not attend House Republican caucus meetings because he doesn't like the idea of "group think."

As a state rep, Buesgens was pretty much a predictable "No!" vote on anything proposed by the DFL-controlled Legislature. Yet, as a libertarian, he would occasionally come up with a surprise vote.

Rep. Mark BuesgensFor example, in the 2009 session, Buesgens voted for a bill that would have legalized the use of medicinal marijuana. That bill passed in both the House and Senate but eventually was vetoed by Gov. Tim Pawlenty.