Gubernatorial candidate Brunner vows to fight government regulations

Missouri gubernatorial candidate John Brunner vowed Saturday, if elected, to fight federal regulations he said are burdensome to businesses and farmers.

The Republican candidate visited with GOP faithful, speaking in the Impact Center at the Agape Worship Center. Agape Worship Center is located on the west outer road between the Wardell and Hayti exits, south of Portageville.

Brunner, a St. Louis businessman, said he had to fight onerous federal regulations as he worked to grow his personal-care-products manufacturing company. He said he would oppose government regulators in any efforts that would hurt Missouri's economy.

"They will have a fight on their hands," said Brunner, a veteran of the Marine Corps. "It is all about free enterprise."

The Environmental Protection Agency's growing regulation of waterways threatens Missouri agriculture, Brunner told the crowd.

"Family farms are in danger of being shut down," he said.

On the issue of roads and bridges, Brunner called for a financial audit of the Missouri Department of Transportation. He also said a "personnel audit" should be undertaken to see whether the department has staff in the right positions to meet the state's transportation needs.

Brunner insisted the department could be run better.

"We would find efficiencies," said Brunner, who opposes new fees for MoDOT.

He also suggested the state should first spend its transportation dollars on roads and bridges rather than on recreational trails and bike paths.

Brunner said government regulations are hampering public schools.

He said federal funding comes with "strings-attached" federal regulations that hurt the state.

"We cannot continue to be held hostage," Brunner said.

Brunner also stressed his involvement in church missions to help improve the lives of people in third-world countries.

"I am not looking for a job," he said. "I don't need a job, and, frankly, I can't be bought."

Brunner said he is running for governor to do "what is right for Missourians" and advocate for a better business climate. The GOP candidate said he would work to bring new businesses to the state.

"I am motivated, and I feel qualified and ready to do the job," he said.