Vernon picks up more endorsements in congressional campaign

WATERLOO - Democratic 1st District candidate Monica Vernon added to her list of endorsements with the addition of Cedar Valley lawmakers.

Iowa Sens. Bill Dotzler and Jeff Danielson, both Waterloo Democrats, and Iowa Rep. Timi Brown-Powers, D-Waterloo, have joined the list of Vernon supporters.

'Monica Vernon has the progressive background and experience we need working for us in Congress,” Danielson said in a statement. 'I'm proud to be supporting her campaign and look forward to doing everything I can to make sure we elect Monica to Congress in November.”

Danielson, Vernon's most recent Cedar Valley supporter, said that as a veteran, he believes Vernon understands the importance of taking care of veterans, particularly when they return home.

Vernon, a former Cedar Rapids City Council member, said in a statement Danielson has been a 'tireless advocate” for the Cedar Valley and she's proud to have his endorsement.

Vernon is facing the 2014 Democratic nominee and Iowa House Speaker Pat Murphy in the Democratic primary, which will be held on June 7. They are both hoping to take on first-term U.S. Rep. Rod Blum, R-1st District, in the general election.

Dotzler, who was an early supporter of Vernon's campaign, said he supports her because 'she'll be a leader and strong voice for the working men and women in the district,” pointing to her advocacy on raising the minimum wage and protecting collective bargaining rights.

Gary Kroeger, of Waterloo, who is vying for the Iowa House District 60 seat, has also previously announced his support of Vernon.

The Cedar Valley lawmakers join a list of more than two dozen state lawmakers who are supporting Vernon's bid for office, as well as several federal lawmakers and labor unions.