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Dan Matthews (Washington)

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Dan Matthews
Image of Dan Matthews
Elections and appointments
Last election

November 5, 2024

Education

High school

Shorecrest High School

Bachelor's

University of Puget Sound, 1972

Graduate

Golden Gate University, 1978

Military

Service / branch

U.S. Air Force

Years of service

1972 - 1994

Service / branch

U.S. Air Force Reserve

Years of service

1972 - 1994

Personal
Birthplace
Seattle, Wash.
Religion
Assembly of God
Profession
Pilot
Contact

Dan Matthews (Republican Party) ran for election for Lieutenant Governor of Washington. He lost in the general election on November 5, 2024.

Matthews completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Dan Matthews was born in Seattle, Washington. He served in the U.S. Air Force Reserve from 1972 to 1994. He earned a high school diploma from Shorecrest High School. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Puget Sound in 1972, and a graduate degree from Golden Gate University in 1978. His career experience includes working as a pilot.[1][2]

Elections

2024

See also: Washington lieutenant gubernatorial election, 2024

General election

General election for Lieutenant Governor of Washington

Incumbent Denny Heck defeated Dan Matthews in the general election for Lieutenant Governor of Washington on November 5, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Denny Heck
Denny Heck (D)
 
55.7
 
2,112,132
Image of Dan Matthews
Dan Matthews (R) Candidate Connection
 
44.2
 
1,674,025
 Other/Write-in votes
 
0.1
 
4,376

Total votes: 3,790,533
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Nonpartisan primary election

Nonpartisan primary for Lieutenant Governor of Washington

Incumbent Denny Heck and Dan Matthews defeated Bob Hagglund, David Griffin, and Patrick Harman in the primary for Lieutenant Governor of Washington on August 6, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Denny Heck
Denny Heck (D)
 
48.6
 
927,395
Image of Dan Matthews
Dan Matthews (R) Candidate Connection
 
23.0
 
438,537
Image of Bob Hagglund
Bob Hagglund (R)
 
16.7
 
319,071
Image of David Griffin
David Griffin (D)
 
8.9
 
169,759
Image of Patrick Harman
Patrick Harman (Liberal Republican Party)
 
2.6
 
50,330
 Other/Write-in votes
 
0.1
 
2,538

Total votes: 1,907,630
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Campaign finance

Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Matthews in this election.

2022

See also: Washington's 2nd Congressional District election, 2022

General election

General election for U.S. House Washington District 2

Incumbent Rick Larsen defeated Dan Matthews in the general election for U.S. House Washington District 2 on November 8, 2022.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Rick Larsen
Rick Larsen (D)
 
60.1
 
202,980
Image of Dan Matthews
Dan Matthews (R) Candidate Connection
 
39.8
 
134,335
 Other/Write-in votes
 
0.2
 
608

Total votes: 337,923
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

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Nonpartisan primary election

Nonpartisan primary for U.S. House Washington District 2

The following candidates ran in the primary for U.S. House Washington District 2 on August 2, 2022.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Rick Larsen
Rick Larsen (D)
 
45.8
 
100,631
Image of Dan Matthews
Dan Matthews (R) Candidate Connection
 
17.0
 
37,393
Image of Jason Call
Jason Call (D) Candidate Connection
 
14.6
 
31,991
Image of Cody Hart
Cody Hart (MAGA Republican Party)
 
10.1
 
22,176
Image of Bill Wheeler
Bill Wheeler (R) Candidate Connection
 
4.2
 
9,124
Image of Carrie Kennedy
Carrie Kennedy (R)
 
4.0
 
8,802
Image of Leif Johnson
Leif Johnson (R) Candidate Connection
 
2.5
 
5,582
Image of Jon Welch
Jon Welch (Conservative Party) Candidate Connection
 
0.8
 
1,699
Brandon Stalnaker (R)
 
0.6
 
1,366
Doug Revelle (Independent)
 
0.4
 
927
 Other/Write-in votes
 
0.1
 
161

Total votes: 219,852
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

2014

See also: Washington State Senate elections, 2014

Elections for 25 districts in the Washington State Senate took place in 2014. A blanket primary election took place on August 5, 2014. The general election was held on November 4, 2014. The signature filing deadline for candidates wishing to run in this election was May 17, 2014. Incumbent Marko Liias (D) and Dan Matthews (R) were unopposed in the primary. Liias defeated Matthews in the general election.[3][4][5]

Washington State Senate, District 21 General Election, 2014
Party Candidate Vote % Votes
     Democratic Green check mark transparent.pngMarko Liias Incumbent 54.5% 20,227
     Republican Dan Matthews 45.5% 16,871
Total Votes 37,098

2012

See also: Washington's 2nd Congressional District elections, 2012

Matthews ran in the 2012 election for the U.S. House to represent Washington's 2nd District.[6] Dan Matthews and Rick Larsen advanced past the blanket primary and faced off in the general election on November 6, 2012.[7] Larsen won.[8]

Matthews was seen by some as presenting a serious threat to Democratic incumbent Rick Larsen.[9] An analyst, however, said, "There is no way a candidate like Larsen is going to lose in 2012."[10]

Larsen led Matthews in fundraising by a fair margin, with Larsen having over $1 million and Matthews with $220,000. No other candidate raised a significant amount.[10]

U.S. House, Washington District 2 General Election, 2012
Party Candidate Vote % Votes
     Democratic Green check mark transparent.pngRick Larsen Incumbent 61.1% 184,826
     Republican Dan Matthews 38.9% 117,465
Total Votes 302,291
Source: Washington Secretary of State "Official Election Results, 2012 General Election"

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Candidate Connection

Dan Matthews completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Matthews' responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Expand all | Collapse all

I am a married (to Jan - 51 years), we are lifelong Washingtonians, I hold a Bachelors in Political Science, and Master’s in Public Administration.

A retired USAF Pilot and Lt. Colonel, with 22 years service, I flew in Vietnam and SE Asia, and Desert Storm. After 31-years at Northwest Airlines as a 747 Captain, Instructor Pilot, and Examiner, I served 8 years as a Boeing consultant in Pilot Instruction and Leadership. I have served on various Boards and Commissions, including as a STEM Educator.

Elected Experience: Former School Board member, 4 years; Advocated for children, parents, education issues in Wash., D.C.; Snohomish County Charter Review Commissioner.

Other Professional Experience: Veteran Pilot: Vietnam, and Desert Storm; US Air Force Lt. Colonel. Commercial Airline 747 Captain Instructor; Boeing Contract Instructor, 747 Pilot Consultant – in Pilot Learning and Leadership; Disaster Preparedness Consultant; Airline Pilots Association Union member.

Education: BA, Political Science, University of Puget Sound; Washington State Senate Intern; Master’s Degree in Public Administration, Urban, State and Federal Governance.

Community Service/Involvement: Nature Conservancy, Cousteau Society (Founding member), Rotary International, Little League Coach, STEM Skills Task Force, WA Policy Center, Domestic Violence Abuse Services, Hope House, American Legion, Combat Veterans, Local Church leadership, Union Gospel Mission, Family Policy Institute Washington – FPIW.
  • I have stepped forward to help fix a broken system. Foolish and failed policies originate from politicians who have forgotten the people. Career politicians fail us by delivering dictates, division, and dependency rather than statesmanship, diplomacy, civility, and respect. There is failure on both sides.

    One political party has controlled our State for decades, representing powerful, big-money interests, growing more imbalanced, even radically extreme. It is time for a positive change in direction.

    I believe I have the experience, qualifications, leadership skills, training and background to serve the people as Lieutenant Governor and bring a new era of excellence, leadership and statesmanship to Olympia and the people of our state.
  • As Lt Governor, I see my role, not as a partisan or politician, but as a Bridge-Builder and unifier; a communicator, team-builder, statesman and peacemaker. Professionally, my role has been to safely navigate to every destination, knowing people’s lives depended on: me; my skills, judgment, and professionalism, and the crew I led. As our Lieutenant Governor, my focus will remain: People working together. In my flying profession we developed / operated under a team-building paradigm called CRM: Crew Resource Management – designed to build an intentional team structure, fostering communication and constructive interaction between all members of the flight crew, enhancing and facilitating the safe and efficient conduct of every flight.
  • To address these, and every issue, let us acknowledge that we are a divided people – State and Nation – often polarized; at odds with one another; frequently abandoning genuine human understanding. The Division, Discord, Partisanship, and Rancor of Politics is never constructive. It is time to change course; to find common ground for the common good, with common sense! Let us now come together! And Be United! Remembering: "A house divided against itself cannot stand!" Like those who came before us, on whose shoulders we stand, Let us not stop working, nor be discouraged, anxious, or afraid. I will fight for what is right and good! This is my commitment to every citizen –– from all parties. I Will Be There – For You!
My top priorities:

• DEFENDING OUR FAMILIES – Parental & Children’s Rights, especially Education
• PROTECTING OUR FREEDOMS – Reminding Government that it works for us – We don’t work for it! Cutting Taxes & Spending and Government excesses … Government must be the solution – Not the problem!
• SAFEGUARDING OUR FUTURE – especially Law Enforcement & Public Safety – Drugs and Mental Health – Recapturing our humanity and direction with purpose and compassion!

As Lieutenant Governor, I will use my position to influence the Executive and Executive Branch to press for these positions to the fullest extent. I will be an advocate for citizens, parents and children- always being accessible for all who are advancing these positions.
The Lt Governor duties fall within both the Executive and Legislative branches. While elected independently from the Governor, the Lt Governor becomes the Acting Governor whenever the Governor leaves the state or is otherwise unable to serve. The Lt Governor also functions as President of the State Senate and, as such, is the lead parliamentarian of that body and helps determine which legislation advances to the Senate floor for debate. In addition to these specific responsibilities as set out by the State's Constitution, a number of additional duties for the position are assigned by statute. As with any elected official, there is flexibility within the position for the incumbent to establish their own initiatives in matters of policy, governance or overall objectives of the office.

As President of the State Senate, the Lt Governor presides whenever the Senate is in session and leads the parliamentary discussion as legislation is debated. When disputes arise on the floor, or if there is a question on the procedural correctness or legality of a motion, the Lt Governor, in association with Senate counsel, will be called upon to make a ruling. The Lt Governor also presides over joint sessions of the State Senate and House of Representatives. As part of his authority as president of the Senate, the Lt Governor also chairs the Senate Committee on Rules, the 21-member body that determines which legislation advances to the floor of the Senate. In addition to serving as Chair, the Lt Governor is a voting member of the Rules Committee.

The Office of the Lt Governor has an open phone line to incoming constituent calls, and receives a high volume of calls from constituents seeking assistance on many issues.

As part of his duties, the Lt Governor serves by statute on ten committees or boards. These include the Senate Committee on Rules, the Legislative Committee on Economic Development and International Relations, and the Association of Washington Generals.
I look up to several people - some of whom were mentors to me when I was growing up. Senator Fran Holman was my Senator when I was a Legislative Intern while in college. His son and I went thru K-12 together. Senator Holman was a Rhodes Scholar, a prominent attorney and distinguished citizen, but more than anything he became a mentor to me as I prepared to graduate. I later wrote to him, trying to tell of how he impacted my life.

By his example and friendship, he taught me that:
The choices, decisions, judgments, and conclusions you opt for along the way are ever important – they will both determine and be determined by your core values and define your character and the person you hope to be.
He challenged me to guard, guide and govern –
Your Hands – the actions you take; that which you hold onto; the labors you undertake; the direction you go; the control you exercise; the strength you seek;
Your Head – the wisdom you need; the intelligence you nurture; the capacity you are given for thoughts and dreams;
Your Heart – the soul you protect; the courage you display; the affections you pursue; the thoughtfulness you express; the charity and love you bestow;
Your Health – the well-being you protect; the strength you develop; the fitness you pursue;
Your Happiness – the joy you find; the laughter you give; the contentment you know; the fulfillment you live;
Your Humility – the modesty you know; the unselfishness you manifest; the honesty you reflect;
Your Humor – the wit you display; the laughter you have; the attitude you nurture;
Your Humanity – the kindness you show; the benevolence you know; the humaneness of your actions;
Your Honor – the integrity of your life; the respect you enjoy; the reputation you protect; the fortune and real wealth of a Life that reflects…

Your Hope – the faith you hold onto; the beliefs of your soul; the desires God has given you; the expectation of He who holds your hand, and head, and heart and all of YOU in HIS hands.
Not just one:

1. The Bible. It is central to my Christian worldview, and I read it daily. No List should be without it.


2. Democracy in America – by Alexis de Tocqueville. A great, but long, read with a traditional picture of American life, politics and morals and the meaning of American civilization. A foundational book.


3. In the Arena – by Pete Hegseth. A more recent read. On heeding Theodore Roosevelt’s call for involvement and making a difference in society in his famous Paris Speech. A call to arms for political involvement. Underscores our responsibility for involvement to restore America’s role as an exceptional and indispensable global leader.



4. Letter to the American Church – by Eric Metaxas. Challenging each of us and the Church to be change agents and let our light, of God's Love, shine before men. Loved this book!
INTEGRITY

If I would have a legacy – I pray:
That I leave a legacy of Love that covers all
Of friendship that stands the test
And understanding that forgives and forgets
Of principled integrity that does not falter or fail.
Of one that influenced others for good and not evil,
Who defended life, love, and liberty whatever the cost.
That I dared to be a Daniel,
Dared to stand alone,
Dared to have a purpose strong,
Dared to make it known.
That I sought hard after God and never gave up.
That I accepted His Love and Lessons for my life
And forgave others again and again.
That I sought to grow and mature each day,
So that I might encourage others along the way.
That voices, like mine, will not be silenced
By the apathy of our neighbor or the compliance of the deceived.
For myself, I have come too far and seen too much!
I have twice gone to war, and I remember!
Still, I take comfort and great solace –
Knowing that my sons and daughters,
My grandsons and granddaughters,
Nieces and Nephews, neighbors, and friends,
That Men and Women I will never meet –
Red and Yellow, Black, Brown, and White –
Will one day rise up, Unite, and repeat the demand,
“Let My People Go!”

So, to The Future, perhaps beyond my horizon –
To my sons and daughters – and
All the unknown lovers of Freedom and dignity,
Who will pick up the torch of Trial and Testing:
Please Remember, and stand tall –
Defending – when necessary,
Justice and Freedom and Love, With your very All –
That your children, and your children’s children
May know the “Blessings of Liberty”
And never taste the terrible curses of Tyranny.

And finally, that each one would search out and find God
And His purpose, His strength, His Love for you
Knowing that He is the only Truth,
The only Way and the only Life -
That all other ground is sinking sand,
and a chasing after the wind.
Put all your trust and faith in Him!
This I pray, This I plead,
With Hope and Affection,
With a Prayer and Purpose

Grounded in The Word and Real LOVE.
PROFESSIONALISM: After 31-years at Northwest Airlines as 747 Captain, Instructor Pilot, and Examiner, I served 8 years as a Boeing consultant in Pilot Instruction & Leadership Development.

SERVICE: On various public / private Boards and Commissions, as a STEM Educator, Church Board leader; 21st L.D. GOP Chair, PCO; GOP Platform Committee; founded a private non-profit, educational, patriotic organization; am a Parliamentarian. Served 4-years on a local School Board (Elective office), and as a Charter Review Commissioner (also Elective Office) for Snohomish County.

TEACHER: As a STEM educator/ presenter, I have spoken with thousands of young people, and educators, about education, careers, and investing in yourself and always serving others. In all this have learned that The Secret of Living Is In Giving! – In Faith, Hope, and Love – In being committed to Excellence and Making a Difference; to Sacrifice and Serve – understanding that Relationships matter most!

PERSPECTIVE: Professionally (as an Air Force and Commercial pilot), my role has been to safely navigate to every destination, knowing people’s lives depended on me: my skills, judgment and professionalism, and the crew I assembled.. As our Lieutenant Governor, my focus will remain: People working together.

This history of service and leadership will prove invaluable if I am elected as Lieutenant Governor. I am compelled by faith, hope, and love in God and people.

VISION: As Lt Governor, my role, is not as a partisan or politician, but as Bridge-Builder and unifier; communicator, team-builder, statesman and peacemaker.

LEADERSHIP: As the Governor’s “Wingman,” I will back up our Governor and be a vital connection between the Executive & Legislative branches. From presiding over the State Senate to building bridges throughout government, I will seek to establish a climate of trust, cooperation, and constructive leadership, integrity, civility, confidence, and trust in our State government.
The Washington State Lt Governor is second to the Governor and assumes that role in the absence, incapacity, or loss of the Governor. The Lt Governor presides over the State Senate and chairs the Rules Committee of the Senate, as well as about ten other Commission, Committees and Boards. The Lt Governor is the one direct link between the Executive and Legislative branch of state government and is an invaluable source of communication and information between the two.

I aim to be a capable and loyal "Wingman" to our REPUBLICAN Governor. The role of a wingman is straightforward; he has one primary rule: To BE THERE – backing up the Lead, who sets the course and fulfills the Mission. The Wingman follows, trusts, is competent, loyal, and trustworthy – an essential part of the team. And teamwork is necessary to succeed.

As Lt Governor, I see my role as a Bridge-Builder and unifier; a communicator, team-builder and even peacemaker. As the Governor’s Wingman, I will be an invaluable source of information and even mediation between the Executive and Legislative branches.

Professionally, my role has been to safely navigate to every destination, knowing people’s lives depended on me: on my skills, my judgment and professionalism, and the crew I assembled for that purpose. As your Lieutenant Governor, my focus will remain: People working together.

From presiding over the State Senate to building bridges throughout government, I seek to establish a climate of trust, cooperation, and constructive leadership, restoring confidence, and trust in our government.

We MUST come together to solve our challenges, especially when challenges are compounded because people don’t know and don’t care – too many remaining silent.

Knowing that they are not represented, people are disillusioned, detached, and distrustful. It is time to restore integrity, honor, and trust! - and remember that we are there to serve the people with Integrity and Honor!
As we pass the torch to the next generation, may our legacy and goal be that we embodied a servant's heart of passion and compassion, unsullied by being compromised or ever lacking in integrity. Our example must be of one who exemplified service above self and sacrifice for others.

If I would have a legacy – I pray:
That I leave a legacy of Love that covers all
Of friendship that stands the test
And understanding that forgives and forgets
Of principled integrity that does not falter or fail.
Of one that influenced others for good and not evil,
Who defended life, love, and liberty whatever the cost.
That I dared to be a Daniel,
Dared to stand alone,
Dared to have a purpose strong,
Dared to make it known.
That I sought hard after God and never gave up.
That I accepted His Love and Lessons for my life
And forgave others again and again.
That I sought to grow and mature each day,
So that I might encourage others along the way.
That voices, like mine, will not be silenced
By the apathy of our neighbor or the compliance of the deceived.
For myself, I have come too far and seen too much!
I have twice gone to war, and I remember!
Still, I take comfort and great solace –
Knowing that my sons and daughters,
My grandsons and granddaughters,
Nieces and Nephews, neighbors, and friends,
That Men and Women I will never meet –
Red and Yellow, Black, Brown, and White –
Will one day rise up, Unite, and repeat the demand,
“Let My People Go!”

So, to The Future, perhaps beyond my horizon –
To my sons and daughters – and
All the unknown lovers of Freedom and dignity,
Who will pick up the torch of Trial and Testing:
Please Remember to stand tall –
Defending – when necessary,
Justice and Freedom and Love, With your very All –
That your children, and your children’s children
May know the “Blessings of Liberty”
And never taste the terrible curses of Tyranny.

And finally, that each one would search out and find God
And His purpose, His strength, His Love

Knowing that He is THE Truth
The death of my father, age 33, when I was 5 and-a-half - he died of Polio just two months before the Salk Vaccine was released, leaving behind seven children, all under 13 and a wife, age 33. I can remember sitting down with Mom as she tearfully told all of us what had happened to our Daddy. It made national news, but was a pivotal moment in our family's history.
Laborer for an Insulation Contractor. 2 years
The Bible - It is the foundational book and guidepost of my life. My anchor and lighthouse.
"The Goodness of God;" "Because He Lives;" and "10,000 Reasons"
Being sexually abused as a young boy - bearing the scars of that for my entire life - as a result, reacting to sexual grooming and other child abuse from deep within!
Presiding over the State Senate is a significant responsibility, but as part of his authority as president of the Senate, the Lt Governor also chairs the Senate Committee on Rules, the 21-member body that determines which legislation advances to the floor of the Senate. In addition to serving as Chair, the Lt Governor is a voting member of the Rules Committee. This influence on specific legislation and its path cannot be underestimated.
Economic Development and International Relations
The Lieutenant Governor by law chairs the Legislative Committee on Economic Development and International Relations (LCEDIR). This 13-member panel is comprised of an evenly split membership of House and the Senate members, appointed by the Chair. Committee meetings are typically held two or three times a year at the discretion of the Lieutenant Governor, who also determines which topics are presented. In addition to the committee work, the Lieutenant Governor continually meets with leaders in government, business, industry and education on economic development issues. Throughout the year, the Lieutenant Governor represents the State of Washington to visiting foreign officials. The Lieutenant Governor also reaches out to Washington State’s diverse ethnic groups by participating in significant cultural events, dedicating staff work to year-round community outreach, and by building relationships with cultural, tribal, ethnic, and religious leaders around the state. The Lieutenant Governor and his staff are active members of the Washington State Consular Association, an honor organization whose members serve as ambassadors of trade and goodwill to foreign nations through a variety of initiatives, and which is composed of dignitaries who formally represent 41 foreign nations in the state of Washington. By statute, the Lieutenant Governor serves as one of the statewide board directors of the organization, in addition to the Governor, and the Secretary of State.
Yes. This is not the place for on-the-job training.

In my case, I have a four-year degree in Political Science, which included a Legislative Internship with a Senator in Olympia. Later, I earned a Masters in Public Administration, specializing in Urban, State and Federal Governance, also including an Internship with a City Manager. That was the academic background.

For experience, I was elected to a local school board, serving for four years. Later, I was elected as a Commissioner on the Snohomish County Charter Review Commission. Each of these steps prepared me for holding higher office with a degree of experience.
The first “SKILL” I would bring – is the most important: INTEGRITY. Without this, we can’t trust any public servant: their intentions; their actions; their statements; their honesty, or anything about them.

The public is tired of politics as usual, of the eternal, and internal struggles of "the game." They want, even demand, honorable action and faithful representation, without rancor and all the manipulation, division and discord. They demand good legislation – not more rules, mandates and control over every aspect of their lives. They want more public servants and fewer politicians – people who will genuinely and honorably serve the people, listening to them, not talking down to them.
Career Politicians never listen – they manipulate and divide – Power and Money are their only focus! One Political Party has controlled our State for decades; representing powerful, big-money interests; growing ever more extreme, out-of-touch. We are forgotten!

This all speak to the need for CORE VALUES and PRINCIPLES:
FAITH – an abiding belief, confidence and trust in God
FRIENDSHIP – remembering that relationships matter most
EDUCATION – Lifelong Learning
LOVE & SERVICE to others – SERVICE ABOVE SELF
EXCELLENCE – the pursuit of
PROFESSIONALISM
LEADERSHIP
MODERATION & PATIENCE
COMMUNICATION – Written and Speaking; LISTENING
JUDGMENT
WISDOM & UNDERSTANDING
STATESMANSHIP & CIVILITY
PASSION & BELIEF – for/in others
COMMITMENT: INFORMED by the Past – INVOLVED in the Present – INVESTING in the Future ... results in ENTHUSIASM and a PASSION for People

As the Governor’s “Wingman,” I will back up our Governor and be a vital connection between the Executive and Legislative branches. From presiding over the State Senate to building bridges throughout government, I will seek to establish a climate of trust, cooperation, and constructive leadership, restoring real civility, confidence, and trust in our State government.
Pilot Jokes:

Co-Pilot, looking down, "Sir, can you tell me what these buttons do?"
Pilot, "They keep your shirt closed."

What noise does a 747 make when it bounces?
"Boeing, Boeing, Boeing"

Who built an airplane that couldn't fly?

The Wrong Brothers.
Snohomish County Republican Party; Cowlitz County Republican Party; Spokane County Republican Party; Skagit County Republican Party; Bill Cooper - SnoCo GOP Chair; Bill Bruch - Skagit County GOP Chair; Mr. Kirby Wilbur; Mr. Larry Jensen, farmer; Rev. Joe Fuiten and Pastor's Picks; Jennifer Sefzik, Whatcom County; Carolyn Strong, Snohomish County; 21st Legislative District Republicans, and others ...
There is so much posturing and ego in politics – where some seek office for less than worthy purposes and have forgotten that we serve the public, they don’t serve us.

Tragically, we are led today by many who know neither duty nor honor. Where is statesmanship and the ethical imperative? JFK challenged: “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.”

ACCOUNTABILITY – Public officials should be held accountable to their oath of office, regardless of party affiliation.
Open and Accountable government is a necessity to increase the trust and respect for legislators and their decisions. Several proposals merit consideration to increase accountability in Olympia:
Moves to provide remote testimony for citizens are simply common-sense transparency. It is becoming more popular with citizens and legislators alike. It should be extended to include all committee hearings and will allow citizens from distant locations an opportunity to participate.

Another proposal: Improve public notice and ban the use of title-only bills. Citizens should be able to comment on proposed legislation. This should include adequate notice for public hearings, and increased transparency so that bills aren’t considered with only minimum time for people to comment. The goal should be to improve public confidence in the legislative process because they are provided ample opportunity to speak to the issues.

Require a two-thirds vote of the legislature to change a voter-approved initiative.
Reduce the number of statewide elected officials.

FINANCIAL TRANSPARENCY –

Apply the Public Records Act and the Open Meetings Act to the legislature. The legislature should not exempt itself from full disclosure. This should include full disclosure of public records, including for legislators and their staff. Otherwise, the taint of a double-standard hangs over Olympia. The legislature should lead by example and subject itself to all the requirements of these Acts.
No!
The Initiative process in our state is an important recourse for the people to counter the hasty or objectionable actions of the Legislature. I would like to see guarantees that NO Legislature or government action can remove or dilute this important citizen safeguard.

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Campaign website

Matthew’s campaign website stated the following:

DEFEND OUR FAMILIES

  • Support Parental Rights
  • Better Education
  • School Choice
  • STEM Emphasis
  • Affordable Living
  • Job Growth & Stable Economy
  • Lower Taxation

PROTECT OUR FREEDOMS

  • Uphold the Constitution
  • Limited Government
  • Transparency & Accountability
  • Public Safety
  • Judicial Excellence
  • Local Control
  • Defend Bill Of Rights


SAFEGUARD OUR FUTURE

  • Protect Our Environment
  • Preserve All Energy Resources
  • Save Our Dams
  • Accountable Spending
  • Election Integrity
  • Economic Freedom
  • Property Rights


A Commitment to Washington State:

  • Utilizing a People First approach, Dan Matthews will defend the Rights of Citizens, Protect our children from overreach of government-maintaining the Rights of parents to have the say in their child's upbringing.
  • Public Safety is a top priority! Dan will support legislation that supports first responders, increases penatlies for repeat and violent offenders and by addressing the drug issues that create much of the crime in our communities.
  • Failing public schools must meet higher standards and Charter and private schools should be an option for more families to provide competition in order to raise the bar for all schools to benefit all children.
  • As Lt. Governor, Dan will prioritize legislation that empowers the people, lowers taxation and fees, and demands accountability for spending. He will oppose any legislation that interferes with our Bill of Rights and the Constitution.
  • The Drug Abuse and Homelessness issues must be met with long-term, proven treatment. Dan will advocate for stronger laws against drug dealing and distribution and for more options for treatment and occupational training to break the cycle of addiction and put recovering addicts on the pathway to self-reliance and productive citizens. Dan will advocate for responsible spending to address this crisis, rather than spending money on resources that are not working.
  • Dan will stand up to the war against women's rights to fairly compete in sports, receive scholastic scholarships, their identity and rights to privacy.


DAN MATTHEWS' DAY 1 CHECKLIST

Dan’s 10-Point Plan for Getting to Work – On Day 1

Working Together – Create a Citizen’s Action Strategy For Today

Wisdom for Tomorrow – Create a Comprehensive Plan For Our Future


✅ Empower & Restore the Economy - JOBS

✅ Restrain Government Growth & Intrusion

  • Cut Spending & TAXES
  • Cut Burdensome Regulations
  • Address Inefficiencies; Bureaucracy

✅ Secure the Border – NO Sanctuary !

  • Establish Immigration Sanity
  • Attack Trafficking: Human & Drug

✅ Reduce Crime & Lawlessness - Law & Order

  • Fully Fund & Equip Law Enforcement
  • Restore Qualified Immunity

✅ Compassionately Respond to Homelessness

  • Address Mental Health & Drug Crisis

✅ Unleash American Energy - Independence

  • Encourage Energy Alternatives

✅ Protect & Defend the Family

  • Pass a Parents Bill of Rights
  • Provide Education Choice

✅ Secure our Elections

  • Enhanced Voter ID

✅ Rein in Government Excesses

  • Restrain Administrative Abuses
  • Limit Government Overreach / Intrusion
  • Eliminate Fraud, Waste & Abuse
  • Audit Government continuously

✅ Protect the Environment [11]

—Dan Matthew’s campaign website (2024)[12]

2022

Candidate Connection

Dan Matthews completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2022. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Matthews' responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

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I was born in Seattle, to humble beginnings, as was my wife of 49 years, we raised four children, have 12 grandchildren. With a degree in Political Science and Master’s in Public Administration, I interned for a Senator, and considered law school.

I became an airline pilot – rising to become a 747 Captain, Instructor and Examiner, and recently, a training consultant to Boeing. I am a retired USAF Lt Colonel, veteran of 22 years, including two wars, having flown in Viet Nam and then in Desert Storm.

I have also served in elective office at the School Board level. The education of our children has always been close to my heart. I also served on the Snohomish County Charter Review Commission – an elective office. I have served my community through Rotary International and various boards and organizations, including my local Church board leadership, the Nature Conservancy and as a founding member of the Cousteau Society.

I am a committed Christian and conservative who believes in smaller, efficient government and involved citizens exercising their freedoms responsibly. I believe that the secret of living is in giving, in service above self, and loving others in the best of Christ’s admonitions.

  • Too much of what is happening today is Wrong – My Friends, we are, in fact, at War! An Economic War – for our ability to provide and survive, A Social War – for parents and families and their rights, A Cultural War – for our children and their future, It is a Spiritual War – for hearts, souls, and minds. A Political War – for each individual and their rights, It is a National War – for our Constitution, Our Character, our Country – Our Very Humanity. Ultimately, We are engaged in a War for Freedom – Whether we leave a legacy of Liberty and Love, or A future of Tyranny and Enslavement. We all know our country is in real Crisis - It is time for us to carefully change course! Consider: “We must not return to power those who got us here!"
  • If our country continues in the current direction, our Economy will become weaker; more of us will lose our jobs, our homes, our health care, and pensions. Public Safety is at risk now, while Nationally and Internationally, instability threatens us all! Years of weak representation and plainly incompetent leadership is enough! Certainly, Rep. Rick Larsen and other career politicians threaten us all: entrenched politicians, spending years in Congress, “Pelosi Puppets,” responsible for this crisis, often getting rich, at our expense.” I am running to unseat Larsen and bring real representation to the 2nd Congressional District – With this obvious, overriding Premise: “We must not return to power those who got us into this mess!”
  • Mr. Larsen, appears to be a good Representative – of Big Money and the Power Brokers of the Beltway. But, the citizens of the 2nd Congressional District want someone who will remain in touch and remember us; leadership and representation that will bring us together – and not divide – Not call us racist or domestic terrorists should we disagree, But help us become One and restore unity. President Kennedy said, “Ask not what your country can do for you, Ask what you can do for your country.” This is irrelevant to Jason Call and Rick Larsen – Democrats – who Seek advantage in the allure of “Free Stuff”. I seek Climate Change – in our political discourse and direction – and will bring this message of statesmanship and honor to Congress!
I am most concerned with the DIVISION in our society!

We MUST come together to solve our challenges, especially when challenges are compounded when people don’t know and don’t care – too many remaining silent – even not voting, unaware or indifferent to the perils they then enable.

To those who must awaken and break free, or forever be slaves of tyranny: Your indifference, your apathy, your silence has a cost. Let this not be your epitaph: “I didn’t know, and I didn’t care”

It doesn’t start with Gulags or Gas Chambers,
It begins with One Party controlling the Media,
and the Message, deciding what is Truth,
censoring speech, suppressing opposition,
Undermining the family; indoctrinating children.
dividing citizens into “us” and “them” –
Always consolidating their power by fear and lies,
As they seize the Education system and
The citizens’ means of defense, mandating compliance,
Calling on supporters to harass and hate,
Muzzling the Church, marginalizing any voice of reason,
De-funding the Police, Encouraging lawlessness,
Rigging Elections and any vestiges of resistance,
One Party, Silencing all dissent and labeling dissenters.
It starts, and it succeeds, when Good People
Turn a blind eye, Let it happen, and Do Nothing!

Knowing that they are not represented, people are disillusioned, detached, and distrustful. It is time to restore integrity, honor, and trust!

This is the largest existential threat to our nation today, and it must be addressed
In my life, I was influenced greatly by a mentor and State Senator I served as an Intern, during my college years. Senator Francis E Holman was a Rhodes Scholar and successful attorney, whose intellect and integrity still have a profound impact on me. His integrity was his hallmark and his humility and stature marked him as a man whom all sides respected and admired. When he would speak on the floor of the State Senate,I would watch as everyone stopped whatever they might be doing to listen to a man of true dignity and wisdom.
First and Foremost: INTEGRITY - the honesty of a principled man.

Humility - not thinking too highly of oneself.
Openness and accountability in conduct at all times.
Communication skills that are dominated by a listening ear.
Trustworthiness and all the marks of a principled person.
Willingness and maturity to hear all points of view with respect and tolerance.
Strength of character and fortitude to never compromise on one's core values.
To defend the weak and downtrodden of life.

A loving, patient, and kind person who thinks of others first.
Love for others

Character
People-oriented
Organizational skills
Judgment
Listening
Communication skills
Integrity / Honesty
Intelligence
Balance

Cooperation
As a Representative of the people, remain in touch with the District and your constituency. Know the needs and listen to the people as much as possible. Establish and foster means of increasing this access to your high office.
Never forget from where you came and who you represent - the responsibility of a faithful public servant.
That I leave a legacy of Love that covers all

Of friendship that stands the test
And understanding that forgives and forgets
Of principled integrity that does not falter or fail.
Of one that influenced others for good and not evil,
Who defended life, love and liberty whatever the cost.
That I dared to be a Daniel,
Dared to stand alone,
Dared to have a purpose strong,
Dared to make it known.
That I sought hard after God and never gave up.
That I accepted His Love and Lessons for my life
And forgave others again and again
That I sought to grow and mature each day,
So that I might encourage others along the way.
That voices, like mine, will not be silenced
By the apathy of our neighbor or the compliance of the deceived.
For myself, I have come too far and seen too much!
I have twice gone to war, and I remember!
Still, I take comfort and great solace –
Knowing that my sons and daughters,
My grandsons and granddaughters,
Nieces and Nephews, neighbors, and friends,
That Men and Women I will never meet –
Red and Yellow, Black, Brown, and White –
Will one day rise up, Unite, and repeat the demand,
“Let My People Go!”

So, to The Future, perhaps beyond my horizon –
To my sons and daughters – and
All the unknown lovers of Freedom and dignity,
Who will pick up the torch of Trial and Testing:
Please Remember, and stand tall –
Defending – when necessary,
Justice and Freedom and Love, With your very All –
That your children, and your children’s children
May know the “Blessings of Liberty”
And never taste the terrible curses of Tyranny.
And finally, that each one would search out and find God
And His purpose, His strength, His Love for you
Knowing that He is the only Truth,
The only Way and the only Life -
That all other ground is sinking sand,
and a chasing after the wind.
Put all your trust and faith in Him!
This I pray, This I plead,
With Hope and Affection,
With a Prayer and Purpose

Grounded in The Word and Real Love.
I was five and a half years old when my father died of Polio, just two months before the Salk Polio vaccine came out, leaving behind seven children - all under thirteen - and a wife who wondered what she could do to provide and raise this family. She did okay, though our situation was "humble" or meager, we all graduated from college, several of us with graduate degrees and a few of us with degrees past graduate school.
My first job was as a paperboy on a morning paper route where I delivered several hundred papers in my local community. I held that position for about three years and then I was a carpenter's assistant during the summer of my junior year in high school.
Unquestionably, the BIBLE

The guidance, TRUTHS, wisdom and strength found there is not resident anywhere else.

Faith, Hope, Love, Grace, Forgiveness, Peace and Humility are all found throughout The Word.
I THEN SHALL LIVE ... Songs such as this distill the Core Values of my life, such as: FAITH – A Life Centered on Jesus Christ – and to telling others of His ultimate sacrifice and Truth; FAMILY – Providing for the growth and success of our nuclear family with my wife of 49 years – through Love, Sacrifice and Commitment; FRIENDSHIP – Proving that relationship – cooperation, loyalty, sincerity, patience and love is the center of success and personal fulfillment; FREEDOM – knowing that the liberties and opportunities we enjoy as Americans are not free – but worth preserving and defending; EDUCATION – the value of life-long learning; communicating and modelling the adventure of ideas, discovery and creativity; LOVE & SERVICE to others – daily practicing and living my faith and the premise of SERVICE ABOVE SELF; Ultimate and sincere BELIEF – in God, Myself and my Fellow Man and living out the Golden Rule to the best of my ability. EXCELLENCE – Making a positive difference in the lives of others, especially the young – knowing that our children are the living legacy that we leave, perhaps the only proof of our very existence, and our investment in the future. OPPORTUNITY – the shaping of our lives as we discover that "The secret of living is in giving". PROFESSIONALISM – the integrity, commitment, effort and dedication to my chosen career and its demands for skill, safety, and excellence; INFORMED by the Past – INVOLVED in the Present – INVESTING in the Future ... results in ENTHUSIASM – a Love and Passion for Life! and for others that compels me to LOVE and ACTION! My goal is to bear witness of Jesus Christ in my life – and if all else fails, to use words.
Drawing close to God - because I always want to be even closer.
The temptations and testing of Life pull us all away from real knowledge and understanding of both God and Man. So I struggle to know, as I am known; to forgive, as I have been forgiven; to love, as I have been loved; to live as I really want to live with the Power and strength of a completely faithful servant of God. Even though I fall short every day.
Members of the U.S. House of Representatives are in the People's House - an institution unique in the world, where each Representative represents a large number or people in a legislative body to set public policy and pass legislation / laws governing the civil conduct of our society. We live in a Constitutional Republic with a framework that is both fragile and profound.
YES. This is no place for on-the-job training, but serious deliberation and accountability, not to mention a level of effectiveness. Politics is simply the pursuit and exercise of power, but holding any elected office identifies someone who has committed themselves to public service and examination. This is no place for novices with good intentions, but no experience.
Our division and polarization - both as a society and politically., as previously discussed.
Aviation Sub-Committee

Armed Forces Committee
Foreign Affairs
Fisheries
Agriculture

Veterans' Affairs
I am in favor of Term Limits. The tendency to become entrenched and forget the people you are called to represent, is too great. Perhaps a six to ten year term limit for Representatives, and a 12 to 18 year limit for Senators would keep the doors open for new, fresh talent to enter the scene and contribute.
As previously mentioned, Senator Francis E Holman profoundly influenced my life and I would be honored to pattern myself after him.
I have been involved / engaged in public affairs and office for some time. After one run for office, my wife reminded me that all is not lost, who knows, you never know who you might have influenced. Indeed, ten years after one contest, a young man comes on the scene and is a bright any shining start in public office. Though just 22 years old, he is beyond his years in maturity and ability. He was involved in my past campaign at the age of twelve and seemingly cut his teeth on my campaign. What an honor to see a young man mature and make a difference in society - and I might have had some small influence on him.
Dad jokes are too corny to repeat - ask my kids.
Compromise is necessary for just about every human relationship and undertaking. This requires mutual respect, understanding, tolerance, humility and acceptance.
Restraining excessive spending would be a top priority for me. Our Budget and Spending must be brought under control!

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Campaign website

Matthews' campaign website stated the following:

Security Issues

  • Economic Security
  • National Security
  • Border Security
  • Societal Security – Law Enforcement
  • Election Security
  • Energy Security
  • Environmental Security
  • Personal Security
  • Family Security
  • Community & Societal Security
  • Political Security
  • Leadership

National security is the ability of a country’s government to protect its citizens, economy, and other institutions. Some non-military levels of national security include economic security, political security, energy security, homeland security, cybersecurity, personal security, border security, and environmental security.


Economic Security

Inflation
The National DEBT –
Jobs –
Reserve Currency – the Dollar
Business
Supply
Retirement
Recession
Stability of Dollar
Employment, Employers
Infrastructure
Employment
Cost of Living
Productivity


National Security

Cyber-Security / Vulnerability
ENERGY Independence
Military / National Defense
VETERANS
Foreign Affairs – International Relations
Wars and Rumors of War Counter-terrorism
Terrorism
Intelligence gathering
Sovereignty
Readiness
Freedom of Seas / Space
Balance of power
Counter-terrorism
Homeland Security


Border Security

Open Borders vs. Secure Borders
Illegal Immigration
Narcotics Smuggling – Fentanyl “epidemic”
Human Trafficking
Homeland Security Global Security
E-Verify Sanctuary


Election Security

Illegal Voting
Election Integrity
Voter ID –
Ballot Harvesting


Societal Security – Law Enforcement

Defund the Police
Crime
Criminal Justice
Catch-and-Release
Soft on Crime
Homeland Security
Intervention
Mental Health
Social Justice
Discrimination
Food Security
Information Security


Energy Security

Energy Independence / Prices
Alternative Energy – Sources


Environmental Security

Stewardship
Climate Change
Pollution
Water Quality
Forest Management
Natural Resources
Global Warming
Sustainability
Ozone
Water Rights


Personal Security

1st Amendment Rights: Free Speech – Religion
2nd Amendment Rights
Personal Liberty / Rights [5th and 14th Amendment …] Privacy
Unequal Treatment / Enforcement Individual Rights


Family Security

Parental Rights – Family Values Senior Rights
Sanctity of Human Life
Education of our Children
Domestic Violence Housing


Community & Societal Security

Dividing Americans
Health Care Technology
Social Security
Racial Division – CRT Identity Politics
Identity Politics
Education – Reform – Choice Investing
Trafficking
Drug
Human
Tribal Rights / Protections Poverty / Homelessness


Political Security

Government – Bloated and unresponsive
Accountability
Taxes & Spending
Excessive & Unfair / Complicated
Continuous Corruption & Cronyism – Conflicts of Interest
Insider Trading

Out-of-Control Spending
Inefficiency
Infrastructure – Ignored
FEAR
Fraud, Waste & Abuse
Control
SOCIALISM – undermining our society


Leadership – Sacrifice for tomorrow

Communication Justice Solutions Bridges
TRUST – Confidence and Trust of WHO is leading us and WHERE
INTEGRITY Our National “TEST” UNITY
Bipartisanship Cooperation Experience POLARLIZATION
Civility Respect Competence Justice
Listening Learning Loving Leading
Combatting DIVISION Conviction[11]

—Dan Matthews' campaign website (2022)[13]

2012

Matthews did not post a campaign platform on his website, but he did release a radio ad:

Dan Matthews radio ad (audio)

Campaign finance summary


Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.


Dan Matthews campaign contribution history
YearOfficeStatusContributionsExpenditures
2024* Lieutenant Governor of WashingtonLost general$50,526 $48,141
2022U.S. House Washington District 2Lost general$145,529 $145,529
Grand total$196,055 $193,670
Sources: OpenSecretsFederal Elections Commission ***This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC).
* Data from this year may not be complete

See also


External links

Footnotes