Capitol Calling

Attorney Sly James was elected yesterday as the next mayor of Kansas City, beating back a challenge from Mike Burke.

More from the Kansas City Star:

James polled 54 percent to opponent Mike Burke’s 46 percent, a surprisingly strong finish after a low-key, cordial race that pollsters had said was too close to call.

“Unbelievable, unbelievable,” James told a cheering crowd at 18th and Vine.

“We want to make ourselves a better city by working together.”

James noted that he grew up at 44th Street and Montgall Avenue and has lived in Kansas City his entire life. “From where I stand, I can tell you better days are ahead,” he said.

Kansas City Mayor Mark Funkhouser, the incumbent, did not get enough votes to make it into the runoff.

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