A C.R. voice in race for governor

Regardless of which ticket we end up supporting in this fall's gubernatorial election, we're glad a Cedar Rapidian is on the ballot.

When Monica Vernon was selected as Democratic candidate for governor Jack Hatch's lieutenant governor running mate, it marked the first time in three decades a woman from this city has appeared on a statewide ballot. Vernon grew up in Cedar Rapids, started a marketing research firm here (disclosure: The Gazette Company, publisher of The Cedar Rapids Gazette, purchased Vernon Research in 2013), has been involved in many local organizations and civic causes and has been a member of the City Council since 2008. She earned our endorsement when she ran unsuccessfully for the Democratic congressional nomination in the 1st District.

From the moment she was introduced by Hatch last week, the city's story of flood recovery and redevelopment has taken center stage. It's a story that many Iowans probably don't know, but the campaign likely will give Vernon a chance to tell it throughout Iowa during the next several months.

We're also glad to see a member of a gubernatorial ticket who understands the issues facing Iowa's cities, too often, forgotten in our political campaigns - which might be why cities face so much apathy or opposition at the Statehouse.

Vernon has seen firsthand Cedar Rapids' struggles with crumbling infrastructure, a budget structure overly dependent on property taxes, public safety concerns and rising poverty rates, particularly among children. She's also been involved in efforts to encourage infill development and attract new businesses to the city.

Over the next several months, lots of events, attacks, charges and countercharges will shape the gubernatorial campaign, some of which haven't even surfaced yet. Still, having a candidate with a background in local issues is good news for Cedar Rapids and the Corridor.

Iowa's second-largest city will have a louder-than-usual voice in this campaign. We hope Vernon continues to use that voice to tell her hometown's story.

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