Why are you running for Colorado House District 61?
Our state government's spending is out of control and its reach is too great. If we don't control spending and reduce the size and scope of government, we will lose our ability to maintain or improve our standard of living. Or worse, we will lose our freedom. I don't want that.
What's this about a "hooker"?
It's not what you think. I am rugby player, and the position I play is called "hooker." So, don't get any funny ideas.
Do you have a criminal record of any kind?
I have a misdemeanor conviction for driving with a suspended license. When I moved from Virginia to Montana some years ago, my Virginia driver's license was suspended due to the change in legal address. I failed to apply for a new Montana license, and then I was involved in a car accident in which I slid off the road due to black ice. The officer that came to the scene cited me for the violation. I pled guilty (or nolo contendere -- I can't remember now) to the charge and paid a $285 fine.
I also have received some other minor traffic tickets.
Have you ever cheated on your wife, done illegal drugs, embezzled money, or done anything of the sort?
No.
Do you abuse alcohol?
No. I rarely drink, and when I do it's not very much.
What is your biggest failure?
I attended Marine Corps Officer Candidate School during the summer of 2003, but I did not graduate because I succumbed to heat stroke twice. I should have been in better shape, as there has never been a greater disappointment for me than failing to graduate from OCS.
What religion are you?
I used to be involved with evangelical Christianity and most of my friends remain so, but now I would consider myself unaffiliated with any particular religious tradition. This can be a tricky and sensitive area for many people. Part of the effort in this campaign will be to seek common ground among many different perspectives, religious beliefs, and cultural traditions.
Aren't you the guy that also ran for U.S. Senate? Are you just a politician looking to get elected to something?
I did run a long shot campaign for the U.S. Senate. I did so because our country is in serious trouble, and I felt the responsibility to do something about it. The only thing I thought I might be able to do is get elected to office to influence, in particular, the way our country makes monetary and fiscal policy. I knew it was unlikely that I'd win, but I don't mind taking big risks -- especially when the potential payoff (in terms of increased freedom and fiscal and monetary sanity) is so large. However, after a serious effort, it became clear that I had to draw the campaign to a close.
For the most part, politics was off my radar screen after that, as I was focused on making a living for my family. However, some persistent friends kept suggesting that I run for State House. I turned them down because I didn't think it was the right timing and fit. But they kept after me.
In the end, after many, many conversations, I became convinced that the same moral responsibility I felt drive me into the Senate race should also drive me to run for the State House. And it has, happily so. Now I can't wait to get to the Capitol and to help turn this state around.
What are your interests?
I love to read. Mostly I read nonfiction -- economics books, some history, some popular science books and others. I also love to play sports -- rugby, volleyball, tennis -- but I make no claim as to any prowess in doing so. I spend the majority of my free time just hanging out with my family. My kids are two of the funniest people around, so it's hard not to be entertained when they're in top form.
Are you married? Any kids?
My bride, Joy, and I have been married for over thirteen years, and we have two small, funny children.
No man has been luckier than I when it comes to his family. My wife and kids are the cute ones in the photos throughout the site.
How can I help?
Tell people about the campaign! Nothing beats word-of-mouth, so please don't hesitate to mention luke2010.com to your family, friends, and coworkers. Or you could volunteer and help with fundraising, writing letters to the editor, writing blogs, making phone calls, or any number of other activities. Also you can help by sharing your opinions on policy matters. Though I have a strong sense of what I think our government needs to do, I really want to hear what you think. Your input matters. And, of course, you could give some cash to help the effort. Thank you for your interest!