Hello!
My name is Leila Staton. I've lived in Grundy County for most of my life. I'm the daughter of a single mother and a graduate of Dike New Hartford High School. I spend my spare time hanging out with my family and my husky Echo, sipping coffee, and reading books.
I've been dedicated to public service since I was a kid, and I take pride in serving my community. From making local parks clean for people to enjoy, being a strong advocate & storyteller for advocacy programs, to serving on my local volunteer fire department, I enjoy giving back to my community. I've spent time at the Capitol doing things like advocating in a sub-committee hearing and speaking with Iowa legislators. I'm also an strong advocate for Child Sexual Assault survivors.
In 2024 I co-founded a local non-partisan advocacy organization. Our organization advocates for public schools, accessible & affordable healthcare and housing, and civil rights while strengthening the community, fundraising for mutual aid resources and children's groups. Our organization holds their elected officials accountable by calling out shameful legislation and despicable behaviors.
Whether it’s an uphill battle to structure a long-term plan, or a last minute rally- I am always ready to organize.
I'm not afraid to stand toe-to-toe with silver-spoon fed loyalists in defense of Iowans, nor am I afraid of being held accountable by my soon-to-be constituents.
Iowa deserves better...
50% of Iowa college graduates leave within a year of graduation. Those who stay are at risk for unemployment, lack OB-GYN care when they intend to raise families, and are crushed by student loan debt. All making Iowa less accessible for people to stay-both born & raised and from out of state.
Life is about thriving-not just surviving. To thrive, you should be able to find a good paying job that covers all of your expenses and more. You should be able to raise a family without worrying about the rising costs of it. Healthcare, housing, and groceries.
That is financial freedom.
It’s long-passed the time to instill trust back into Iowa. Big banks, tech bros, and other “elite lobbyists” will not be lining my pockets in exchange for tax breaks for their friends-when hard working Iowans deserve those tax breaks.
When elected, I will work tirelessly to make Iowa work for Iowans.