Midwest Voices

Miriam Pepper

None

The top two finishers in the KC mayoral primary - Sly James and Mike Burke - are clearly friends and hard campaigners, fine circumstances for voters tired of nasty politics. The two lawyers showed the most optimism on the campaign trail and both pursued the city’s top post with passion and commitment.

Their command of ideas to improve the city is impressive. The next four weeks offers voters a condensed general election campaign and debates should give residents more opportunities to evaluate their platforms.

The fact that the current mayor failed to win a shot at a second term reflects a community tired of disappointments and embarrassments. Mark Funkhouser was an able auditor who couldn’t translate his audit acumen into political calculations needed to succeed. Poor personal judgments and a stubborn streak cost him re-election.

By May 1, Kansas Citians are guaranteed a more polished and professional leader. And that’s fine news for a city in need of a lift.

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