Michigan Wildlife Officials Clash With Ted Nugent Over Capitol Hunting Testimony

Ted Nugent faced strong criticism from Michigan Natural Resources Commissioner John Walters and other officials after his June testimony before state House committees where he disparaged the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and its conservation officers, calling them "jack-booted thugs." Nugent attacked state hunting regulations including bans on deer baiting, Russian boar, and hunting certain species such as wolves, sandhill cranes, and mourning doves, which Walters defended by citing disease control and ecological damage concerns. Walters and NRC Chair Becky Humphries condemned Nugent's remarks as insulting, unprofessional, and misguided, emphasizing that conservation officers enforce the laws professionally and that changes should be pursued through proper channels rather than legislative grandstanding. Nugent also reportedly carried a concealed firearm into the state Capitol despite a weapons ban, drawing further controversy. The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between some lawmakers, wildlife regulators, and hunting advocates over fish and game policies and licensing fees in Michigan. Walters welcomed further dialogue with Nugent to resolve disagreements but stressed the importance of respecting the work of DNR professionals.