Contact: Art Staed (319) 899-4365
Cedar Rapids, Iowa, July 13th

Small business owner and educator Art Staed announced today that he is running for the Iowa House of Representatives from House District 66, which encompasses northeast Cedar Rapids.  Staed, a Democrat, is a former State Representative who previously represented much of the same area of Cedar Rapids.

“I have decided to run again because I fear that our state is heading in the wrong direction.  Rather than prosperity for the hand-picked few, I believe that we must have prosperity for all Iowans who are willing to spend their days working hard and taking care of their families,” said Staed.

“We can build a brighter future for our state.  However, to do so, we need to create an economy centered on innovation and focused on both new and existing businesses.  These businesses will create more good-paying jobs if we spread the responsibility of taxation equitably, rather than picking winners and losers.  This will also allow every Iowan a fair opportunity to prosper.”

As both an educator and small business owner, Staed says he knows that” for Iowa to remain competitive and innovative, we must continue to support a world-class, well-funded public education system with the highest standards for every child and school.  We need well-trained teachers who will nurture our children’s minds and provide them with the opportunity to fulfill their full potential.”

Art Staed has been a teacher, administrator, sales manager, training specialist, workforce development counselor, state legislator, and business owner.  “This wealth of experiences has given me unique and valuable insight into the challenges and responsibilities faced every day by Iowa businesses, workers, and families.  And that, along with my willingness to listen and to work in a bipartisan manner, will allow me to better represent the people of House District 66.”

Staed, who has two Masters Degrees, currently teaches secondary education for Cedar Rapids Schools at the Four Oaks Phase program and is active in the Cedar Rapids Education Association.  He and his wife Susan also own and operate Coffee Talk Café near Kirkwood College.  They have 4 children and 5 grandchildren.

While previously in the Iowa House, Staed served as Vice Chairman of both the Education Committee and the Economic Development Appropriations Subcommittee.  He also served on the Economic Growth, Labor, and Veterans Affairs committees.

Download Press Release (PDF)