John Norris to kick off Iowa gubernatorial campaign with ‘barn-raising’

CEDAR RAPIDS — John Norris is hosting a 'barn-raising' July 9 to kick off his campaign for the Democratic nomination for governor.

The kickoff potluck takes place from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at the Walnut Hill Picnic Shelter at Living History Farms, 11121 Hickman Rd., Urbandale.

Norris, who served Tom Vilsack in the governor's office and at the United State Department of Agriculture, will share his vision that 'it's time our government worked for all Iowans.'

Norris has been touring the state meeting with Democratic activists in preparation for the official launch of his campaign July 8 in his hometown of Red Oak.

The fifth-generation Iowan 'is all about rural Iowa,' explained campaign spokeswoman Tessa Lengeling.

Admission to the potluck is free. Those who attend are asked to bring a dish to pass.

'If you can bring a lot, bring a lot. If you can bring a little, bring a little,' Lengeling said. 'Everyone will be fed. That's the Iowa way.'

Those planning to attend are asked to RSVP to rsvp@norrisforthepeople.com.

Norris plans to hit the campaign trail across Iowa and has scheduled a stop in Cedar Rapids July 11. More details will be announced later.

Norris will join Sen. Nate Boulton of Des Moines, former Iowa Democratic Party Chairwoman Andy McGuire, former Des Moines school board President Jon Neiderbach, Rep. Todd Prichard of Charles City, Davenport Alderman Mike Matson, Coralville nurse and union president Cathy Glasson and Des Moines businessman Fred Hubbell in the race for the nomination.

The nomination will be determined by a June 2018 primary unless none of the candidates gets at least 35 percent of the vote. If that happens, a candidate will be nominated at the Democratic convention.

For more on Norris, go to norrisforthepeople.com.

l Comments: (319) 398-8375; james.lynch@thegazette.com