Marvin Willis Lucas Jr. is a retired Democratic politician who served in the North Carolina House of Representatives from 2001 to 2025, representing the 17th District and then the 42nd District in Cumberland County. A longtime resident of Spring Lake and retired school principal, he is African-American and married to Brenda. Lucas announced his retirement after completing his term in 2025, capping a 47-year career in politics and public service. He served as House Democratic Conference Co-Chair and was known for strong electoral support, winning his final term with 67.39% of the vote.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Earned a BS from Fayetteville State University, an MA from North Carolina Central University, and an EdS from East Carolina University.
• Professional Background: Worked as an educator and principal.
• Political Experience: Elected to the North Carolina House in 2000, serving 12 terms ; focused on issues supported by groups like NC AFL-CIO, NC Police Benevolent Association, North Carolina Association of Educators, and Planned Parenthood. Preceded by Theodore James Kinney and succeeded by Mike Colvin.