Missouri Farm Bureau Chief Criticizes Bush Over Ag Cuts

Proposed massive cuts at the Federal Agriculture Department has prompted a person who would normally be considered a big backer of the President to say he’s wrong on this issue. President Bush’s budget calls for a 10 percent cut in funding for the USDA, a five percent cut in farmer subsidies, and a cap of $250,000 for each farmer’s payments from the government. Missouri Farm Bureau President Charlie Kruse says what is being proposed violates what Congress promised farmers they would get just a few years ago. Kruse has been seen as a big backer of President Bush and most Republicans running for office. In fact, Kruse was even in consideration to be Secretary of Agriculture at one time. He says his respect for Bush hasn’t changed, but he won’t be afraid to tell the President he’s wrong on this one.