Jenna Buzzacco-Foerster
There are more than 300 candidates running for the 160 seats in the Florida House and Senate. And, try as we will, FloridaPolitics.com won’t be able to interview all of them. So we are asking every candidate, including incumbents, to complete a questionnaire we believe offers an interesting, albeit, thumbnail sketch of who they are and why they are running. If you are a candidate and would like to complete the questionnaire, email [email protected].
Today’s candidate spotlight features Matt Hudson, a Republican running for Senate District 28.
Here he is in his own words.
Significant other? Kids?
Married to Jennifer Guy-Hudson, with two now-adult children, Chris and Kelsey, and two granddaughters.
Education background? Professional background?
Attended Manatee Junior College, Edison Junior College, Barry and Hodges universities, and the Naples School of Real Estate. Currently, I’m the broker and vice president of operations at VIP Realty Group, Inc. I am a licensed real estate instructor and teach at the Naples School of Real Estate and around the state of Florida at local real estate boards.
What was your first job?
My first job was my own business, cutting lawns and taking care of pools. I went to work for somebody other than myself with Walgreens in 1982 and retired after 20 years, and have been in real estate sales, management and teaching since 2002.
In 25 words or less, why are you running for office?
I am running to represent the conservative principles of my community in Tallahassee. I am running to be the voice of the people in their government.
Did you speak with anybody in your political party before deciding on running? Receive any encouragement? From whom?
No. However, countless community members in my current house district encouraged me to run and to continue being their voice in state government.
Who do you count on for advice?
The founding fathers, scripture, my wife, my community … in no particular order
Who is your political consultant? Campaign manager?
Marc Reichelderfer of Landmarc Strategies is my political consultant and my campaign manager is Matt Spritz.
Who was the first person to contribute to your campaign? Why did they donate?
Every donation is important — first or last or anywhere between.
Who, if anyone, inspires you in state government?
There are so many great people in state government, it is hard to single out one.
Why do people mistrust elected officials and what are you going to do about it?
I think people have lost faith because too many people say one thing and do another. But, that’s not me. I say what I mean and mean what I say. I believe it’s the umpire in me that has to be definitive.
What are 3 issues that you’re running on? (You’re not allowed to say education or “improving the schools”)
Improving our health care system and fighting Obamacare, creating a great business climate to allow for private-sector job creation, fighting Common Core and making state government more efficient.
What is a “disruptive” issue (i.e. ride-sharing) you are interested in?
I believe there are a number of state agencies that should be reorganized to bring better service to their customers, the citizens, and be a better value to Floridians.
What does your legislative district need from Tallahassee?
The people of this district need what all Floridians need — an efficient government that delivers necessary services in a responsive and fiscally conservative manner. All Floridians should be treated consistently wherever they reside in the state of Florida.
Who was the best governor in Florida’s modern history?
Because you asked the question in past tense, I guess Gov. Scott is not an option. So, I will say former Gov. Jeb Bush.
If you could amend the Florida Constitution, what would you change?
I would make it tougher to amend.
Are yard signs an important part of campaigning in your district?
They are a part of the campaign puzzle, but only a part. Which puzzle piece is most important? Is it the first, the last, or the one you didn’t know was lost?
What’s the first thing you read each morning?
The Sunburn, then Sayfie, and then the Drudge Report.
Where do you get your political news?
Multiple sources.
Who do you think will be the next President of the United States?
Donald Trump
60 Minutes or House of Cards?
Neither. Turn on AMC.
Social media presence? Twitter handle?
Yes, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter (@repmhudson).
In 140 characters, what’s a Tweet that best describes your campaign message?
Your conservative voice in your state government #swfl www.voteformatthudson.com
Hobbies?
Umpiring baseball and softball, grandkids, and concerts and movies.
Favorite sport and sports team?
Baseball — American League Boston Red Sox, National League Florida Marlins. All Florida State University and all Florida Gulf Coast University sports.
