Margaret Liston is a dedicated public servant with a heart for community and a passion for improving the lives of Iowans. She embodies the values of trustworthiness, honesty, accountability, and responsiveness in her longstanding service to the city of Ogden, and will do the same in the Iowa State Senate for the people of District 24.

 

Born in Perry, Iowa, and raised in Beaver, Margaret is the second youngest of seven children, instilling in her a deep sense of collaboration and hard work from an early age. Growing up in a small town like Beaver provided Margaret with a unique perspective on the challenges faced by rural communities. She understands the struggles they encounter, particularly the lack of resources to attract families, businesses, and companies. This understanding fuels her commitment to improving the health and welfare of citizens in these smaller communities, revitalizing business districts that will be attractive to potential employers, and upholding core values that make Iowa so special.

​

Margaret Liston has been a resident of Iowa her entire life, a testament to her unwavering commitment to this state. She is married to Gerald Duff, and their family includes six adult children and 10 grandchildren, reinforcing her dedication to family values and community bonds.

​

With a professional background in healthcare, Margaret served as an operating room nurse until her retirement. Her educational journey reflects her commitment to continuous learning and service. After attending Ogden High School, Margaret earned her GED in Harlan, IA, became a Licensed Practical Nurse, earned an Associate degree in Registered Nursing from DMACC, and further pursued a Bachelor's degree in the Science of Nursing. Her dedication to public service led her to achieve a Master of Public Administration, rounding out her extensive educational background.

​

Margaret's impact on her community is further underscored by her role as a City Councilwoman for the City of Ogden, currently embarking on her fifth term. Her influence extends beyond politics as she co-chairs the city's community garden, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and sustainable living. Margaret is also deeply involved in the educational realm, serving as a volunteer mentor within Ogden Elementary School and contributing as a substitute school nurse and associate, supporting students throughout their school day.

​

Why is Margaret running for Iowa State Senate in 2024?

Over the last several years, Iowa’s current legislature, including the current State Senator representing District 24, have passed laws and regulations that favor small interest groups, not real Iowans. In fact, many of the laws being passed in Iowa are taken word-for-word from ALEC, the American Legislative Exchange Council, including weaking and dissolving unions throughout Iowa.

 

ALEC is comprised of wealthy companies that invest millions of dollars to pass state laws placing corporate interests ahead of the interests of ordinary Americans. ALEC has, sadly, been very effective in Iowa due to our legislature’s buy-in and acceptance of ALEC campaign funding.

 

Margaret Liston will never accept campaign funds from ALEC and will vote against these special interests and their influence in Iowa. She believes:

 

• Iowans care deeply about our once commendable public school system and want to re-establish it and stop the closures of more rural Iowa schools.

• Iowans know it’s wrong for the government to steal Iowa farmland for the profit of private corporations.

• Iowans are intelligent enough to make their own healthcare choices.

• Iowans are responsible enough to determine for themselves what books they want their children to read.

​

As an advocate for responsive and accountable governance, Margaret Liston's leadership has left an indelible mark on her community and the state of Iowa. Her journey from a small-town upbringing to a seasoned public servant exemplifies her commitment to the people of Iowa, the prosperity of communities (especially rural communities), and the enduring values that define her character. Margaret Liston continues to stand for trustworthiness and accountability in Iowa's state government, working tirelessly to create positive change and build a brighter future for all.