Ron Cope

Ron Cope (February 23, 1911 – January 12, 1992) was a Republican politician from Nebraska who served as a member of the Nebraska Legislature from the 36th district from 1975 to 1983.

Early life Cope was born in Pawnee County, Nebraska, in 1911. He graduated from Burchard High School in 1939, and then from Peru State College. After graduating, he taught in Pawnee County and Burchard. Cope began working for the O'Connor Department Store in North Platte, and left to become the manager of Clausen's Shoe Store in Kearney. In the nonpartisan primary, Cope faced George Boucher and Jack Carey, both of whom were farmers, as well as Bill Beltzer, who dropped out of the race and endorsed Cope, but whose name remained on the ballot. Cope placed first in the primary by a wide margin, winning 47 percent of the vote, and advanced to the general election with Carey, who placed second with 21 percent. In the general election, Cope defeated Carey with 56 percent of the vote.

Cope ran for re-election in 1978. He was challenged by Bill McMullen, a Kearney State College student and law clerk. Cope placed first in the primary, winning 72 percent of the vote to McMullen's 28 percent. He defeated McMullen by a landslide in the general election, receiving 61 percent of the vote to McMullen's 39 percent.

Death and legacy Cope died on January 12, 1992.