Election loss does not stop law student
Published Dec. 1, 2006
Finding time for everyday tasks can be difficult for graduate students, but Lucas Kunce, an MU law student, managed to find enough time to run for state representative in the 113th district in Cole County.
"It's something I've wanted to do for a long time," Kunce said. "Politics is a great way to reach out to people, so I thought I'd get out and try to make a difference."
Kunce received the Democratic Party nomination when he ran unopposed in the primary election.
Although he lost the election to incumbent Rep. Mark Bruns, R-Jefferson City, Kunce was pleased with his showing in the polls and grateful for the experience.
In 2004, Bruns defeated his challenger 68 percent to 32 percent, but this year Bruns only defeated Kunce 56 percent to 44 percent.
"I think I did really well considering how much I closed the gap," he said. "I also learned how important money is because I was outspent by about four to one."
Kunce is in his final year of law school and expects to get a legal job in Jefferson City, his hometown.
He also plans to remain active in politics and has already filed to run for a city council seat in Jefferson City.
Kunce is optimistic about the April election because he won 55 percent of the votes in the ward in which he is running for city council.
In 2008, he also plans to run for state representative again.
"Hard work is what it's all about for me, and I want to represent people and work hard for them," Kunce said. "Running for office is a great experience. I encourage everyone to do it."
