for State Senate 2020
INTEGRITY, WORKING FOR YOU
About Lela
I want to be your state senator because I am appalled at what the Republican leadership is doing to our state. The bills coming out of our legislature are having a devastating impact on families, the disabled, seniors, jobs, education, and healthcare. This is unconscionable and it needs to stop. I believe legislators work for their constituents, and should put their priorities first, not their own. I am running because I want to change the focus and priorities of the legislature back to those of the people, and I know I have the experience and the leadership to make that happen.
I am a Phoenix native and I attended Adams/Grace Court Elementary and went on to graduate from Phoenix Union High School. As a product of public education, I strongly believe in and credit Arizona's kindergarten through university educational system for making the difference in my ability to help others.
I earned my bachelor's degree at University of Arizona in three years and later received my master's from Arizona State University while teaching full time in the Phoenix Union High School District. I was elected to the PUHSD Governing Board in November of 2008, continuing my service to Phoenix students and families after teaching in the district for 34 years.
In 1976, I was elected to the Arizona State Senate where I served on the appropriations committee for 18 years. In my 27 years at the legislature, I have focused on supporting programs designed to strengthen the education system and improve health care for children and families.
Awards and Honors
Honorary State Firefighter
Girl Scouts' 2002 World of Children Award
Lela Alston Elementary school in the Isaac District.
The Issues
Civil Rights
From voting rights to equitable treatment, the Arizona legislature has shown its disregard for minorities, the LGBTQ community, the disabled, and elderly. As your senator, Lela will continue to oppose any legislation that undermines equality and fight for legislation that expands equal treatment under the law.
Economy
Arizona families need high wage jobs, and we need to make sure we are producing a skilled workforce to attract them. Because the economy draws its strength from its residents, Lela promotes policies that improve the wellbeing of everyone, not just a few people or special interests. Lela has won awards and recognition for her work in making Arizona a leader of biotechnology research.
Education
Lela believes the legislature needs to stop the persistent attacks on schools and the budget strangling that have left a generation of students with less opportunity than those before them. Quality education from early childhood to higher education should be accessible and affordable. Exceptional education opportunities are the foundation of success for both the individual student and the workforce needs of the future.
Environment
Preserving Arizona's resources to allow for the enjoyment of our wonderful state parks and natural beauty is a top priority. Lela has consistently supported measures for alternative energy to keep Arizona's air clean and water sustainable and pure.Civil Rights
Gun Violence
Common sense gun laws are long overdue. Lela supports raising the minimum age to 21 for all gun purchases, banning bump stocks, and requiring universal background checks on gun sales, including private party transactions.
Healthcare
Lela will continue the fight for access to quality, affordable healthcare for every Arizonan. She will work for protection of reproductive rights, children’s healthcare, and expanding behavioral healthcare access and funding.
Contact
Authorized by Lela Alston. Paid for by Lela Alston AZ Senate 2020.