On this episode of Podward State, hosts Matthew Paolizzi, Samuel Brungo, and associate producer Jordan Mansberger are joined by Ezra Nanes, who’s running to become State College’s next mayor.

Nanes starts out the show talking about his wife, Mieke Haeck, and her question on ABC’s live town hall with Joe Biden back in October. He lets us in on the experience and what it meant for both their family and for the LGBTQ+ community. Nanes also touches on his past experience with politics and how he got involved in politics.

Nanes then tells us about why he chose to run for mayor. He dives into certain issues in State College and some places where he feels our community is falling behind. This transitions into what he’s running on, what he wants to change, and some of his overall policies.

Finally, Nanes talks about what makes a good mayor, his strengths in this campaign, and what sets him apart from his long-time State College school board member Jim Leous, who’s running against him May 18’s primary election. Nanes closes out the show by telling us information about his campaign, how to stay in touch with him, and what information residents need to know about the election.

Podward State is an Onward State-produced podcast that will release weekly episodes this spring on Spotify and YouTube. Each will feature discussions about all things Penn State, including sports, news, student life, and entertainment, and more.

You can catch this week’s episode using the YouTube or Spotify links below.

Editor’s note: Nanes’ appearance on Podward State is part of a longer series that aims to highlight candidates in May’s upcoming primary. Onward State does not, and will not, endorse any candidates for office. Out of fairness, we have also reached out to Jim Leous to potentially set up an interview but have not received a response. Check back next week for more coverage of the upcoming election.