

Dan Matthews
Republican | Washington
Candidate Profile
Conservative (Conditional)
BIOGRAPHY
Name
Dan Matthews
Party
Republican
Election Year
2024
Election
Primary
Race
Lt. Governor
Incumbent
No
EDUCATION
Golden Gate University, San Francisco, M.P.A., 1978
University of Puget Sound, Tacoma, B.A., 1972
Shorecrest High School, Shoreline, Diploma, 1968
WORK & MILITARY
Contract Consultant - Boeing, Instructor Captain 747 / Consiultant, 8
Northwest Airlines / Delta, Instructor/Examiner Captain 747, 31
U.S. Air Force, Command Pilot / Lt. Colonel, 22
AFFILIATIONS
Mt View Assembly of God / Reclamation Church Lakewood, Deacon, Treasurer
Shoreline Assembly of God, Deacon, President, Trustee
The Manhattan Declaration, Contributor, Signer
The Cousteau Society, Founding Member
The Nature Conservancy; Rotary Int'l, Member
Heritage Foundation; HSLDA, Member, Contributor
Technical Skills Career Task Force, Member - STEM Educator & Mentor
Union Gospel Mission; Housing Hope, Domestic Violence Services, Contributor, Supporter
Pregnancy Resource Clinic, Washington Policy Center, ACLJ, Contributor, Supporter, Member
Alliance Defending Freedom; Family Policy Institute (FPIW) Washington, Contributor, Supporter
POLITICAL OFFICES HELD
Shoreline School Board Director, 1987-91
Snohomish County Charter Review Commissioner, 2012
21st Legislative District GOP Chair / PCO, 2012 - 2024
POLITICAL OFFICES SOUGHT
Washington State Lieutenant Governor, 2024
US Congress - 2nd Congressional District - Washington, 2022
Shoreline School Board Director, 1987-1991
Washigton State Senate - 21st L.D., 2014
US Congress - 2nd Congressional District - Washington, 2012
ENDORSEMENTS
REPORTED BY CANDIDATE (1)
Bill Cooper, SnoCo GOP Chair; Bill Bruch, Skagit County GOP Chair; Cindy Carter, San Juan County Chair
SELECTED CONTRIBUTIONS
CONSERVATIVE
GIVEN BY CANDIDATE (18)
Ron DeSantis (2024); State Republican Party Organizations (2024); Local, County, and District Republican Organizations (2023); Bob Hagglund (2022); Janelle Cass (2022)
RECEIVED BY CANDIDATE (5)
Peter & Maria Zieve (2022); State Republican Party Organizations (2022); Jeff Scherrer (2014); Jim Kellett (2014); B.J. Guillot (2013)
QUESTIONNAIRE
RIGHT TO LIFE
Under what circumstances should an elective abortion be allowed?
Only to save the life of the mother – life-threatening circumstances. In the event of Rape or Incest crimes – the Doctor and family should be the determinant of the justification for an Abortion. It should never be done for the sake of convenience. Notice: When the conversation is about guns, they pretend to care about "the children." When the conversation is about abortion, they can't kill "the children" fast enough! We must defend LIFE at all costs! I am committed to compassion & Adoption.
Chemical abortion drugs should meet essential safety standards (such as in-person consultation with a medical doctor) and require reporting to gather evidence on reactions and outcomes.
Strongly Agree
The history of such drugs, particularly their medical safety, has been poor, with deaths of women attributed to complications from their use, or misuse. Since the Dobbs decision, efforts have increased to make medication abortion more widely available and accessible. Laws arise requiring the two-drug RU486 abortion technique be administered consistent with the protocol established by the FDA, meet stiff resistance from the abortion industry. Evidence and data are needed to protect women.
Abortion providers, including Planned Parenthood, should not receive taxpayer funds from federal, state, or local governments (including Title X grants).
Strongly Agree
Planned Parenthood dedicates 90+% of its resources and "treatment" to Abortion – pretending to be a women's health center is exploitation and dishonest. Remove the profit from these "Killing Fields" and watch what happens. Abortion should never be subsidized overseas with Taxpayer money, either. (The Mexico City Policy). Abortion is the ultimate exploitation of women! If P.P. gets funds – an equal amount should be given to Adoption-related Services to provide an alternative to Abortion.
I support 'aid in dying' laws which legalize assisted suicide and euthanasia.
Strongly Disagree
I do not support such laws – in any form!! When will our inhumanity end? Assisted suicide, euthanasia, and aid-in-dying laws are but harbingers of greater evils to come. Our technological and medical advancement should be directed at savings and improving the quality of life – not ending it. I will do everything in my power to stop such laws!
RELIGIOUS LIBERTY
Under what circumstances can government close churches?
Never - unless the church burning.The State should have no ability/latitude to interfere with the free exercise of religion - or the First Amendment means nothing. The free exercise of religion should remain free. The government is required to have nothing to do with churches. Any separation applies to the state to keep its hands off religious institutions and people expressing their religious convictions. Individuals have an inherent right to be involved in society, expressing their beliefs.
Individuals and businesses should be required to provide services even if it would violate their moral and/or religious beliefs.
Strongly Disagree
This Violates the 1st Amendment. Our Constitution must be defended. I support the Alliance Defending Freedom and the American Center for Law and Justice, and other legal organizations that help defend those who stand their ground and do not capitulate to the power of prejudice – even if it is at the hands of the state. The Right of Conscience is sacred to our system of government and must never submit to the whim of the moment. Finally, we must not bow to the “king” if it violates the Bible.
NATIONAL SECURITY
The Chinese Communist Party poses serious military, cyber security, intellectual property, and global economic threats to the United States.
Strongly Agree
There is no aspect of society today that is not subject to this threat. Taiwan may well fall in the coming months – as the World trembles – at what Pres. Biden may call a "minor incursion" – but will be a pivotal catastrophe. China's quest for world domination is now obvious and underway – we ignore this existential threat at our peril. The economic and political stability of the entire world depends on the CCP not seeking to dominate the world. My military background certainly confirms this!
Is the United States' relationship with Israel important, and if so why?
Yes. Israel is the only legitimate Democracy in the Middle East and one of our most important allies. Americans and Israelis are united by our shared commitment to democracy, economic prosperity, and regional security. We are Israel’s greatest ally, helping them maintain peace in the region through military, diplomatic and foreign aid. The strategic importance of Israel to world peace is critical. The War on Terror depends on our cooperation. Our economic and commercial relationship is strong.
HEALTHCARE
What most closely matches your view on healthcare: A) Healthcare for all should be guaranteed and funded by the government with no private healthcare option. (includes "universal healthcare," "medicare for all," etc.) B) Healthcare insurance funded by the government should be available for all who want it, along with private healthcare options. C) Medicaid and Medicare should remain available, but no other taxpayer-funded programs are necessary. D) Taxpayer funded health care should be abolished in all forms, and Medicaid and Medicare should be defunded.
At one time, I Probably leaned on B, above. ( B) Healthcare insurance funded by the government should be available for all who want it, along with private healthcare options. Now, I think C) Medicaid and Medicare should remain available, but no other taxpayer-funded programs are necessary…. Is my stance, as government intervention continues to be a slippery slope to Universal Health Care – meaning, the government rules – controlling every person and their personal healthcare and decisions.
Under what circumstances (if any) should a government, school, or employer be allowed to require vaccinations?
None. The liberty of the individual is paramount; "My body, my choice" applies to individuals who decline medical treatment of any kind. Indeed, by what right does (or can) government, let alone a business, exceed its lawful/constitutional authority?
ECONOMY
Free enterprise and the right to private property are essential elements of a productive economic system.
Strongly Agree
Private ownership of property (land, businesses, goods, wealth) is essential to ensuring the natural right of people to control their own affairs. Free enterprise gives people the right incentives. In capitalism, private-sector enterprise uses resources more efficiently than government, and society benefits when the free market decides who profits and who does not. In addition, private ownership of property makes it possible for people to borrow and invest money, thus growing the economy.
What is your position on the minimum wage?
OPPOSE, State-imposed Min Wage is a price control. It sets the rate below which workers can't be hired so thousands of entry-level jobs are eliminated. The Min Wage does the most harm to young workers, the unskilled, immigrants and the unemployed.
Should environmental and social issues, like ESG (environmental, social, and governance) ratings, be used as criteria in deciding where to invest public monies?
No
This is the Public’s Money: there are legal limitations on the extent to which investment decisions can be based on factors other than maximizing plan participants' economic returns. The evidence (Return on Investment) for this niche is still inconclusive. Some ESG “standards” are extreme in their perspective. There is a fiduciary responsibility to the stakeholders to invest all funds wisely and achieve reasonable returns. Practices and standards are not always clearly set for ESG investments.
IMMIGRATION
The U.S. should do more to physically secure the southern border.
Strongly Agree
We are being invaded! We need: Big, secure Fences and Big, secure Gates - with a secure and safe system for Immigration. We are governed by "The Rule of Law" – Enter our country by the "front door," according to our rules – get in line. Anything else insults those who have entered legally, by the normal/lawful means. We welcome all who enter lawfully and honorably– an HONOR SYSTEM that works. Assuring that criminal and undesirable elements are screened from entering is a prudent step/goal.
EDUCATION
The state should fund education by allowing dollars to follow the child through programs which protect parents' freedom to choose their child's school – public, private, or homeschool.
Strongly Agree
As both a parent and a former school board director, I know what is at stake here: the full and proper education of every child. Unions and elite educators currently dictate the playing field. Parents are regarded as the enemy - even terrorists - if they dare to speak up. Follow the money! The Education Establishment is determined to control every aspect of education, especially the flow of money! Unrestrained School Choice is the best answer to assuring that children are taught parental values.
CRIMINAL JUSTICE & PUBLIC SAFETY
I support redirecting funds from police departments to community programs.
Strongly Disagree
This concept is a not-so-subtle way of undermining and replacing our police with weak-willed, untrained, social justice warriors who have no real concept of crime, or law enforcement itself. We should have armed officers – Community Resource Officers – placed in every school in America – defending our children. Schools should not be "Gun Free Zones" – but teachers/staff should be allowed to Conceal & Carry – in order to support Law Enforcement, if needed. Mental Health programs must stand alone.
2ND AMENDMENT
What restrictions on gun ownership are needed to protect public safety?
Disqualification from owning or possessing for properly/legally identified persons (subject to Due Process) suffering from specific medical / mental conditions who would present a risk to themselves or others. Felony convictions – including Voter Fraud, and all crimes of violence, should disqualify applicants – subject, again, to Due Process. No diminishment of the 2nd Amendment, such as Red Flag Laws, or even Gun Free School Zones. Publicly provided firearms training is a worthy goal, as well.
Should teachers be allowed to carry guns at school?
Yes
Schools should not be "Gun Free Zones" – but teachers/staff should be allowed to Conceal & Carry – in order to support Law Enforcement, if needed. Proper training should be provided to every staff member requesting and screened for possession of firearms. Also, we should have armed officers (Community Resource Officers) placed in every school – defending our children and schools. I was an FFDO (a Federal Flight Deck Officer) or armed pilot, trusted & trained to protect my flight, if necessary.
ABOUT YOU
Have you ever been penalized for sexual misconduct in either civil or criminal court? If so, please explain.
NO ... BUT, I was a victim of sexual molestation as a young child and am sensitive to sexual grooming, molestation and predatory behavior in our society, as a result. This is why I am an absolute advocate for strong families and the protection of our children today.
Have you ever been convicted of a felony? If so, please explain.
NO
What do you think is the general purpose of government?
Could not say it better: "We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America." That is the purpose set forth in the Preamble to the Constitution, and pretty much sums up the general purpose of good government. TO SERVE!
When you consider your views on a wide range of issues from economic and social matters to foreign policy and religious liberty, which of the following best describes you overall?
Conservative
God's Word and His morality – exemplified in a Christian Worldview – best describes my moral compass. Godly Integrity and Ethics – personal or public – emanate from a moral absolute that is centered on Christ – His example and His Word. Remove this and we have chaos and relativism that undermines, corrupts, and destroys a civilized society. Our country WAS founded on Judeo-Christian beliefs and principles that are certainly reflected in our founding documents – this cannot be honestly denied.
VALUES
Children are the most vulnerable members of society and must be protected from abuse, including gender ideology, grooming, and bodily mutilation.
Strongly Agree
This is, perhaps, the most pressing social crisis in our country today! How have we gotten to this point: where minor children are bombarded, assaulted and coerced through constant messaging and sexual indoctrination that circumvents and ignores the values and deeply held beliefs of parents?! “Communicating with a Minor for Immoral Purposes” used to be a commonly understood evil – indeed, a felony! Now, it is an educational standard! This perversion and undermining of the family must stop!
Parents should have the right to make decisions for their minor children.
Strongly Agree
It should be the preeminent right of parents to make decisions regarding their minor children; preceding the “right” of anyone, or anything (government, etc.) else. This right is, indeed, God-given: part of the social contract between government and families. Government should not be able to usurp the parental authority unless the obvious welfare of the child is in jeopardy – as determined by proper legal authority and process. The raising of children must remain the prerogative of the family!
Taxpayer funds should be used to provide gender transition services.
Strongly Disagree
Gender transition and assignment is an elective decision and should not be funded by any public funds or agency. This is madness! Frequently, this irreversible procedure is thrust upon vulnerable, minor children without the consent or knowledge of parents. The assault on the family – it’s values, deeply held religious convictions and core beliefs – could not be more evident than in this area. What “Brave, New World” is this that destroys people and families for political, elitist opinions!??
Marriage is a God-ordained, sacred and legal union of one man and one woman. No government has the authority to alter this definition.
Strongly Agree
Marriage: The sacred union of a man and a woman is a long-established right of the Church. Codified in common law, it is nonetheless a traditional institution and legacy of religious belief and practice. Indeed, it is God-ordained, established in Scripture, and has a cultural tradition extending back thousands of years, in countless societies around the world. Government and secular society has no right to alter the definition of marriage, especially for political motivation. Alt.:Civil Unions.
Briefly describe your spiritual beliefs and values.
I believe in God the Father, in Jesus Christ His only begotten Son and in the Holy Spirit (3in1). I am a conservative, Evangelical Christian, and a sinner who has been saved by Grace and who is – with all my ability – trying to fulfill the Great Commission. I love all people, as Scripture requires, and believe in the Soon and Coming Return of Christ for his Own. Until then, I will be engaged in the culture, the Church and in any moral and legal way to make a difference "For Christ and His Kingdom" – and to “occupy” until He comes. The Holy Bible is my central reference – sustaining and guiding me in all things. I will always attempt to bear faithful witness of these beliefs and values – and when all else fails, I shall use words. Romans 12.
ELECTIONS AND VOTING
People should be able to vote without photo identification.
Strongly Disagree
Voter ID and Valid Verified Identification are central to a free and fair election. They are reasonable and prudent and widely supported by the vast majority (80+%) of the public. People should be allowed to register and vote only after showing proper ID, demonstrating citizenship. Measures to provide an exemption or PROVISIONAL BALLOT can always be provided in the event some extenuating circumstance arises. The racism of low expectations should not stop implementing Voter ID requirements.
States should join the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact which makes the Electoral College irrelevant.
Strongly Disagree
There is inescapable logic and wisdom in the Electoral College, as provided by the Founders. We are a Constitutional Republic, not a Democracy, the NPV is an unbridled effort to change to election by popular vote. The unfair benefit to urban, more populated areas is undeniable, often their goal. Note that most of its advocates are Blue (Democrat) states. Arguments questioning the constitutionality of the NPV are substantial. The disenfranchisement of smaller, rural states is another big concern.
EQUALITY
Is racism a threat to domestic security in the United States? Why or why not?
NO. We are not a racist nation! Racism, and ANY division between people, is a threat to the peace and security of all citizens, of any country. Diminishing any person’s rights or freedom in our country, without due process, threatens us all. Our country enjoys a remarkable amount of harmony and good will between all people. I was raised knowing: " ...Red and yellow, black, brown and white, all are precious in God's sight!" and practiced this principle my entire life. ANY Division threatens us!
I agree with Critical Race Theory (CRT) which asserts that the institutions in the United States are fundamentally racist.
Strongly Disagree
We are NOT Racist! CRT, from the Frankfort School, is a Marxist and destructive ideology that is an existential threat to the U.S. It is racist and bigoted at its core and must never be allowed. This philosophy should never be taught in our schools, or allowed access to any businesses, as it poisons our children and turns them against their parents and friends. Concepts like this are designed to divide and destroy society(s) – and it is working. We MUST stand up and speak out against this hate!!
Biological males should not be allowed to participate in women's sports or occupy biological women's spaces whether it be bathrooms, locker rooms, sorority houses, women's shelters, or prison.
Strongly Agree
In every way, I AGREE! God created man and woman, and it is a biological FACT that cannot be altered, no matter how one FEELS! I do advocate allowing anyone who "transitions" to the opposite sex to perform in their own "division," in any sport, if they choose to deny their sexual gender. They may not compete in the categories of male or female, but may compete in the Trans or "Other" category. Males competing against females gives the man unfair advantages. Men must go to Men's Prisons, Lockers.
ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT
Which comes closest to your view? (Select all that apply) A) Stricter environmental laws and regulations cost too many jobs and hurt the economy. B) Stricter environmental laws and regulations are worth the cost. C) Stricter environmental laws undermine U.S. energy independence and deter development of reliable electricity sources. D) Climate change is real and requires urgent policy action.
A and C, The U.S. observes more environmentally safe measures than almost any country in the world. We bear the load, while many countries are exempt. A balancing of interests is needed. We can do better at maintaining a good economy, creating jobs, AND being good stewards of the environment. We must set a good example, assisting other countries in their efforts, too. US Energy Independence is sacrificed for excessive environmental agendas. As Christians, we know that we are to be wise stewards.
What do you believe is the most reliable energy source that will supply the growing demand for electricity?
The most reliable energy source is probably yet to be invented/perfected. So, the most reliable energy source currently available is probably nuclear power, and the developing field of Fusion Power. Hydroelectric energy is inexpensive when available.
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