Dana Staples

Dana Staples earned a high school diploma from Edward Little High School. He earned a bachelor's degree from the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and a graduate degree from the University of Southern Maine. His career experience includes working as a computer programmer.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I've been serving on boards and committees for the city of Auburn for over ten years. I'm currently serving on Auburn's Comprehensive Plan Committee where we are creating a ten year plan for the city. Previously I served on the City Council, Planning Board, Parks and Rec Advisory Board, Complete Streets Committee, and several others.

Professionally, I have over twenty years in the computer software and IT private sector. I most recently worked as the VP of IT for a clean energy company.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

I think that if you work in Maine you should be able to afford to live here too. The cost of living is rising at rates that are not sustainable. Wages are not keeping up. Something needs to change.When I talk to voters, regardless of what political party they’re in, I hear the same thing - they are sick of politicians arguing with each other. We need leadership that is willing to compromise to arrive at solutions that work for more than one party. This was a cornerstone of my work on Auburn's city council, and I intend to keep it up if I'm elected.Our aging workforce is a very important issue that we must face. I have been a longtime proponent of retaining our students once they enter the workforce. While at Tyler Technologies I helped start the Maine App Challenge, which is a scholarship competition with the goal to show Maine high school students that there are great jobs in Maine. I’ve met hundreds of high school students and had discussions about the types of work available to them in the state, and I am eager to support our students as they stay in Maine and build a life here.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I have read several books about placemaking, city building, and street design. My professional career has provided me with opportunities to create and adopt data privacy policies as well as AI policies.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Elected officials should be able to listen and compromise.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Elected officials should represent all of the people in their district, not just the people in their party.