Matt Adams

Matt Adams served in the U.S. Army Reserve from 1985 to 2015. He graduated from Middlesex High School. He earned a bachelor's degree from Rutgers University in 1987 and a law degree from New York Law School in 1994. His career experience includes working as an attorney.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a retired Judge Advocate General (Attorney) in the US Army Reserve, a Veteran of Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom, a father to three fine young men, one of whom is severely disabled, a former two term council member in my hometown of Middlesex, a retired defense industry lawyer, a runner, a pilates enthusiast, a Rutgers University graduate and fan, a Veterans and disabled persons advocate, and a man with the drive to make the lives of others better.

I feel like I have lived many lives, with lots of joy and lots of sorrow. My trials, tribulations and extensive service to the community have given me insight that other candidates do not have. I want to put both my personal and professional experience to work for the people of NJ's 12th Congressional District.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

The road to affordability starts where autocracy ends. As a lawyer, I know the US Constitution, and I know how it has been abused by this President. Starting unlawful wars in Venezuela and Iran, imposing unconstitutional tariffs and agency cuts, and building a ballroom with zero Congressional approval are just a few of the ways the Constitution has been abrogated.

I also know the levers to bring Democracy back. As a retired soldier of 30 years service, I have the commitment to the Constitution that others don't. I have sworn an oath to this document, and continue to be willing to give my life in its defense.We must take affirmative steps quickly and efficiently to give immediate relief to Americans. This includes raising the age at which a young adult can stay on their parent's insurance policy to 30. With this simple change, we give insurance to tens of thousands of people who don't have it.

We then must lower the age of medicare eligibility to 60. Many older Americans hang on to jobs they despise because they need the health insurance. If we can allow these people to exit the work force, if they choose, we will open up new roles for our younger generation.Americans need greater access to home ownership. We must revise the tax code to allow first time home purchase savings to grow tax free (like a colleges savings 529 plan). We must also incentivize builders to sell units in buildings as townhomes or condominiums, so that young owners can begin amassing the equity to take the next step.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am passionate about serving Veterans and our special needs population, but also about preserving the planet for future generations, and ensuring its continued existence through diplomacy and regulation.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

Abraham Lincoln, as he guided this country through its most difficult time, and saved the Union. He maintained his integrity, empathy and resoluteness in the face of incredible pressure. I see the need for the same qualities now, as the Union is threatened in similar ways.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Integrity, empathy and honesty.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

To serve their constituents.

What legacy would you like to leave?

Having played an integral role in saving Democracy.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

Delivering newspapers. I had a bicycle route for 2-3 years, but later had a motor route to help pay for college.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Grief. I lost both my parents while in my mid-twenties, and both my brothers later in life.

What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?

The House is the branch closest to the people, and therefore should be asserting its authority to do right by them. Also, the power of purse is truly the ultimate authority over US action, and therefore should be leveraged to mandate appropriate conduct.

What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?

- Democratic backsliding

- Wealth inequality

- Unregulated artificial intelligence.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

I believe in compromise as a first step in policy making.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

The Middlesex Borough Democratic Organization

What was the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember?

Landing on the moon.