Big learning curve

Two young, first-time candidates given less than a month to campaign are seeking the Iowa House District 33 seat in Tuesday's special election. Dick Taylor's recent resignation opened the seat that represents southwest and southeast Cedar Rapids.

Our interviews with Kirsten Running-Marquardt, 32, the Democratic Party's nominee, and Josh Thurston, 28, the Republicans' choice, found similarities among their priorities: flood rebuilding, economic development and creating jobs.

When it came to proposing specific solutions or ideas, we heard little from either.

Running-Marquardt holds the edge in political experience. Her father is a former state legislator. She has assisted some Democratic campaigns and now works for First District Congressman David Loebsack's office. She wants to ensure that the low-income and middle class workers are not overly taxed. She feels the state should do more in health care.

Thurston, a Cargill employee, has no political experience. He served in Iraq shortly after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, suffering the loss of several friends in combat. He says the experience of serving his country is now calling him to serve as a legislator and making sure flood victims are not forgotten. He says legislators must get state budget “under control.”

Neither candidate convinced us to make an endorsement. However, both bring a sincere, admirable desire to serve that should help the winner overcome a big learning curve.