Dist 55

527 Groups have been taking aim at both the candidates for House District 55, but 11 News gave both the candidates the opportunity to speak for themselves.

Democrat Bernie Buescher was elected to the Colorado House of Representatives in 2004, and currently serves as Chairman of the Joint Budget Committee. Buesher has lived in Mesa County all of his life is hoping to serve a second term in House District 55. Buescher says he has a long record of representing Mesa County, and he believes a comprehensive look at his votes shows that.

Buesher's opponent, Republican Bob Caskey has served in the United States Air Force and spent 26 years with the Colorado Division of Wildlife.

Both candidates agree water, Colorado's budget and health care issues are a top priority. But illegal immigration is also one hot topic they face.
Caskey says, "frankly if you want to be a US citizen then get in line with everybody else." Buescher says a distinction between legal and illegal immigration must first be made. He says, "I think those folks that have come to our country legally, done their paper work and are using our processes and want to be a member of our society and play by the rules, I am a strong supporter of those folks. For folks that come into the country illegally and don't play by the rules and cheat, that's a different thing." He says he will tough on illegal immigration, but will support those folks that comply with our rules.

House District 55 represents the North Eastern portion of Mesa County.