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

Leous starts the show by giving us a look into his past in politics and his experience serving three terms on the State College Area School District School Board. This leads to why he chose to run for mayor. He dives into certain issues in State College and some places where he feels the community is falling behind. This transitions into what he’s running on, what he wants to change, and some of his overall policies.

Leous talks about what makes a good mayor, his strengths in this campaign, and what sets him apart from his competition, Ezra Nanes, who’s also running as a Democrat in May 18’s primary election. Leous 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 upcoming 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: Leous’s 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.