Peter Schorsch
More than 300 candidates are running for the 160 seats in the Florida House and Senate. And, try as we will, FloridaPolitics.com won’t be able to interview them all.
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 Willhite, a Democrat running in House District 86.
Here is Willhite in his own words:
Significant other? Kids?
I have an amazing wife, Alexis, of 15 years and am blessed to have two sons: Luke, who is 9, and Mark, who is 7.
Education background?
Palm Beach State College — associate degree in EMS, Technical Training for Firefighters.
Professional background?
Currently a captain with Palm Beach County Fire Rescue, I have been a firefighter in our community for over 20 years. Before joining Palm Beach Fire Rescue, I served as a Corpsman in the U.S. Navy. Since 2008, I have also served as vice mayor and councilman for the Village of Wellington.
What was your first job?
My parents taught me the value of hard work and instilled in me a strong work ethic. I started working summer jobs in construction at age 14. My first full-time job was as a busboy at a restaurant.
In 25 words or less, why are you running for office?
I am respected as a hardworking community leader who is ready to put my community above myself.
Did you speak with anybody in your political party before deciding on running? Receive any encouragement? From whom?
Before I made the final decision to file, I had a great conversation with Mark Pafford and, of course, my family.
Who do you count on for advice?
The person I most count on for advice is my wife. She is the most amazing wife and mother, and I am so blessed to share my life with her. She is an incredibly hard worker, and has overcome difficult circumstances to get where she is today. She motivates me every day to give all of myself to my family and community. If I am seeking technical advice or knowledge in a particular field, I look for counsel from an expert. So, my answer would, of course, depend on the issue that I was tackling. If it were financial in nature, I would ask my financial adviser for instance.
Who is your political consultant? Campaign manager?
My general consultant is Christian Ulvert who is the president of Edge Communications. My campaign manager is Geraldine Pierre.
Who was the first person to contribute to your campaign? Why did they donate?
A close friend, Neil Hirsch, because he believes in me as a person.
Who, if anyone, inspires you in state government?
I think people like David Kerner, Dave Aronberg and Joe Abruzzo are good role models. They are all Democrats, like myself, but they understand how to work with everyone for the benefit of their constituents.
Why do people mistrust elected officials and what are you going to do about it?
I believe residents mistrust elected officials because they don’t always believe that they have their best interests at heart and because partisan bickering has created gridlock, especially at the national level. I first ran for local political office because I have always served my community, either as a veteran or a firefighter, and I saw local office as an opportunity to give back. I believe in leading by example, and I feel the best way that I can build trust in government is by being a transparent, open and genuine public servant. Our campaign has worked hard to communicate openly and honestly with voters about my priorities for the district, and if elected I will continue my efforts to update our residents on progress in the district, and listen to their concerns for our community.
What are 3 issues that you’re running on? (You’re not allowed to say education or “improving the schools”)
Investing in Infrastructure, Water Quality, Protecting our Seniors.
What does your legislative district need from Tallahassee?
Funds to invest in our infrastructure, especially transit, and to incentivize economy growth.
Who was the best governor in Florida’s modern history?
Bob Graham because of his work days, commitment to the environment and higher education.
If you could amend the Florida Constitution, what would you change?
Amend the constitution to ensure that there is no doubt every Floridian is treated fairly and free from any discrimination, including on the basis of sexual orientation.
Are yard signs an important part of campaigning in your district?
Yard signs are just another way to get your name out in the district. Our campaign has signs, but we also have been knocking door to door, talking to voters on the phone and at early voting sites, and sending mail about our priorities for the district.
What’s the first thing you read each morning?
Emails
Where do you get your political news?
Facebook, television.
Who do you think will be the next President of the United States?
I’m proud to support our next President of the United States, Hillary Clinton.
60 Minutes or House of Cards?
House of Cards
Social media presence? Twitter handle?
https://www.facebook.com/MattWillhiteFL/
In 140 characters, what’s a tweet that best describes your campaign message?
I believe in putting community above self, #Vote #Democrat Matt Willhite for State Representative, learn more @ MattWillhite.com
Hobbies?
Politics, my amazing kids and learning to fly airplanes.
Favorite sport and sports team?
Baseball, Detroit Tigers.
