The newsmax article, as usual, has more hype then substance, since they fail to describe what Bustamante's connection to Mecha is (or was). Apparently he was very involved while in college in the early 70's. Has he since renounced his involvment? The article seems to be asking that question, while implying he has not.
Many of us did things or believed things when young (18-22) which we no longer support, myself included. So the Mecha thing I thing is a tad over blown.
However, what is not over blown and also what is not reported was his derogatory use of the infamous "N" word. That of course would be the kiss of death for any Republican. I did find this interesting little bit while trying to find out more about Cruise and Mecha:
I thought I read recently that he had declined to renounce the association. Someone correct me if my memory has failed me.