Why MAtthew?

Born in South Bend, Indiana, into a family of eleven, including his loving parents, Matthew learned the value of cooperation early. Throughout his life, Matthew has worked tirelessly in service of his family and his community-- and will continue that service as your representative in Washington.

A BACKGROUND BUILT ON HARD WORK

Matthew worked as a farmhand, a janitor, a messenger, and a store clerk to support himself through college.
He graduated with honors from the Catholic University of America with his Bachelor’s in Political Science and Spanish
Continued his education at Indiana University, earning his Masters in Public Administration while completing two studies for the Indiana State government.

College graduation 1978 with mother, sister and niece

Chairing the annual meeting of FAO professional staff

Mission in Pakistan on UN cooperation 2007

With Florida Democratic Party chair, Nikki Fried

A LIFETIME OF PUBLIC SERVICE

Matthew spent two years in the Peace Corps supporting rural agricultural communities in Central America.
Provided critical support to migrant farm workers through the Illinois Migrant Council.
6 years working with regional planning councils in Martinsburg, WV and Lynchburg, VA, as well as the National Association of Regional Councils and the Government Finance Officers Association Research Center.
27 years with the UN Food and Agriculture Organization supporting programs and activities fighting hunger and improving food systems worldwide.

UNDERSTANDING HOW GOVERNMENT ACTUALLY WORKS

Authored multiple publications and studies for improving public policy and services
Extensive experience navigating local, state, and
federal government interactions
Years of urban and regional planning expertise working across West Virginia,
Virginia and Washington, D.C.
Authored comprehensive fiscal studies and plans for community development, block grant applications, and business directories.

AN ACTIVE MEMBER OF OUR COMMUNITY

A resident of our district since the 1990s, Matthew has made Southwest Florida his home.
Dedicated volunteer with AARP’s Tax-Aide program, Habitat for Humanity, and local hurricane relief groups.
Co-founder of the Immigration Justice Coalition of Southwest Florida.

A LIFETIME DEMOCRAT WHO GETS THINGS DONE

Matthew has worked to support democratic campaigns since before he could vote—starting with George McGovern.
Promoted voter registration and participation among the American community overseas as chair of the Democrats Abroad Rome Chapter.
President and active member of Sarasota Democratic Hispanic Caucus, building bridges and amplifying underrepresented voices in our community.

THE CANDIDATE WE NEED

Matthew brings what’s often missing in politics: genuine empathy born from experience, technical expertise in how government works, and a proven commitment to lifting up marginalized communities.

As our representative, Matthew will work endlessly to promote progressive policies and ensure that that the government works for the people-- not the other way around.