Williamston — Congressman Mike Rogers, R-Brighton, spoke and fielded questions on Friday at a local cafe about prescription drugs, the war in Iraq, torture, trash imports and campaign finance reform.
About 50 people gathered at Cappuccino Expresso Cafe to meet Rogers as part of a series of events held last week outlining his principles and agenda for House Republicans.
He is seeking to become majority whip, the third-ranking position in the Republican caucus.
Rogers represents the 8th district, which includes Clinton, Ingham and Livingston counties and part of Shiawassee and Oakland counties. MSU is in Ingham County.
Marine Pfc. Matthew Headley said he thought the presentation was "well done." He said he appreciated Rogers' comments supporting the war in Iraq and the war on terror.
"The smaller gathering was a chance to hear what the people's concerns are," Headley said.
Rogers also discussed General Motors' efforts to expand its sales overseas, especially into China, to help boost sales.
Headley, whose father works for the company, said he appreciated the help.
William Dwyer, who lives near Charlotte, asked Rogers to explain his vote opposing U.S. Sen. John McCain's, R-Arizona, anti-torture legislation.
Rogers explained that he does not support torture, and that he voted against the legislation because it does not adequately define torture.
He said the legislation defines torture based on the Army field manual, which can change.
"It's not fair for the people overseas for us to change the rules," Rogers said.
The answer did not satisfy Dwyer.
"The whole presentation was basically a dog and pony show," he said afterward.
Rogers said the federal plan that provides assistance in purchasing prescription drugs has helped grant access to health care to people who were not able to afford it in the past.
"It's not going to be perfect for everyone," Rogers said. "We wanted to help as many people as we could."
When asked how the new conservative government in Canada might affect trash importation into Michigan, Rogers told the group he is working on legislation to allow local governments to decide whether or not they want to accept trash importation.
"We are going to have to deal with this in Congress," Rogers said.
Earlier this month, Rogers proposed legislation designed to restore trust in government by ensuring lobbyists and politicians are accountable for how money is raised.
Bob Alexander, who challenged Rogers for the 8th district seat in 2004, was in attendance Friday.
He said Rogers' legislation to reform lobbying and campaign finance fails to address the real issue of the money influencing legislation.
