Profile: Richard A. Matkin

Name: Richard A. Matkin

Office you are Seeking: U. S. Senate

Current Profession: Retired U.S. Army (AIRBORNE)!

Age:  52

Where Do you Live: Hazel Park Michigan

Marital Status and Children: Married 30+ years, One (child) daughter
 
Questionnaire:

Why did you decide to run for this office?

Give the true independent voter a viable choice.
 
What particular skill set or experience would you bring to this office?

As a retired U.S. Army paratrooper I have lived and worked in multiple countries, I have taken the true pulse of  those both friend and foe of our way of life, I will not be voting based on political gain and I will not be pressured by party elites when deciding on american quility of life issues. With my BA (Summa Cum Laude) and MA from the University of Detroit Mercy, also being inducted as a liftime member of Jesuit National Honor Society I understand the value of a michigan based education with an eye on the important social issues we face. As a lifetime member of VFW and DAV I also am reminded often of the true exceptionalism of our fellow citizens and the price americans a willing to pay for our way of life.
 
What, in your opinion, is the primary cause for the political polarization that we see in Washington, and what could or should be done about it?

Not having a strong third party to force real votes on issues is an issue in itself, it is however one that we as voters can and should change starting now.
 
If the deficit is a major concern, how best should we deal with it as a nation, spending cuts, tax increases or both?

This is America we are talking about, why limit ourself to either of these bad choices, lets grow our way to greater prosperity.
 
What is the biggest issue facing Michigan that you  believe you could positively impact by holding the federal office that you are seeking?

Make the persuit of knowledge (education) in all communities our number one issue. A wise and educated society will advance the quility of life in all sections of our economy, Education will also help make strong families, families able to build a safer environment to live work and play at every age and income level. I want to give every american the freedom to excel!