Campaign Shooting Range Event Sparks Backlash for Democrat Senate Candidate After Reporter Injury

Missouri Democratic Senate candidate Lucas Kunce is under fire after a campaign event at a shooting range went awry, resulting in a bullet fragment from Kunce's gun striking a nearby reporter. The incident occurred during a campaign stop on Tuesday, held at a private residence, where Kunce was firing rounds at a target. A fragment ricocheted, hitting KSHB-TV reporter Ryan Gamboa in the arm, causing a minor injury that required first aid.

Images from the event show Kunce wrapping gauze around Gamboa’s arm and using his belt as a tourniquet to stop the bleeding. The reporter was able to remain at the event and continue covering it, despite the injury. Kunce quickly downplayed the situation, releasing a statement that said, “You never know what’s going to happen shrapnel can ricochet off anything, and you’ve got to be prepared. We were able to handle the situation, and I’m grateful Ryan is okay.”

Missouri Republican Sen. Josh Hawley, Kunce’s opponent in the upcoming election, wasted no time capitalizing on the accident, mocking the situation on social media. “I condemn all acts of violence against reporters and call on Kunce never to shoot another one,” Hawley quipped on X, followed by three laughing emojis.

The mishap adds to a growing list of recent embarrassments for Democrats trying to appeal to gun owners and Second Amendment supporters. Just over a week ago, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Kamala Harris’ running mate, struggled to operate his personal firearm during a pheasant hunting event. The governor, who describes himself as a “gun guy,” was mocked for his apparent lack of familiarity with guns. Video footage of Walz fumbling with his Beretta while complaining about its fit only fueled the skepticism surrounding his expertise.

Critics have used these incidents to question Democrats’ credibility when it comes to gun culture, suggesting that their attempts to pander to gun owners and hunters are nothing more than political theater. Walz, despite claiming to support the Second Amendment, has advocated for “common-sense” gun legislation an approach that many see as contradictory to true support for gun rights.

As the election season heats up, the incident at Kunce’s campaign event may raise more questions about his competence and handling of firearms. In a state like Missouri, where gun rights are a critical issue, this slip-up could have lasting effects on his campaign, giving his Republican rival, Hawley, more ammunition to use against him.

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