“I’m running to improve the health and quality of life for all Michiganders.”
Portage, MI – Today, Dr. Matt Longjohn, a 5th-generation Kalamazoo County resident, and nationally recognized public health leader, officially announces his candidacy for Michigan’s 40th State House District. Driven by a commitment to enhance the health and quality of life for the residents of this district, and the state at large, Longjohn enters the race with a wealth of experience and a sincere dedication to public service. If elected, Longjohn would be the only physician in the Michigan legislature.
“When I graduated from medical school 25 years ago, I swore an oath to dedicate my professional life towards improving the health of others. Today, I am announcing my campaign for Michigan’s 40th House District because I believe I can make a significant impact on the health of all Michiganders by serving as a representative of my community in Lansing,” Longjohn said. “In the State House, I’ll fight for the things that will improve the health and quality of life for everyone in my district, including accessible, equitable, and affordable health care, clean air and water, and educational and economic opportunities.”
With over 25 years of experience in medicine, public health, policy development, coalition-building, and small business, Longjohn brings a unique perspective to this race. As a seasoned health professional, innovator, educator, and leader, Longjohn understands the direct impact policies in Lansing have on all Michiganders.
Longjohn previously ran for U.S. Congress in 2018 in response to former Congressman Fred Upton’s partisan efforts to cut Medicaid. Since 2018, Longjohn has focused on developing his small business, which supports government agencies, community-based organizations, and health systems to create better systems of health care delivery. He has also joined the faculty at the local medical school to instruct future physicians in health policy, and health systems science.
In his campaign to succeed Representative Christine Morse, who is not seeking re-election in 2024, Dr. Matt Longjohn is committed to adding value to local and state politics, driven by a vision to improve the health and quality of life for every individual in Michigan’s 40th State House District. The 40th District includes much of Kalamazoo County, but not the City of Kalamazoo.
“When I ran for Congress in 2018, I had no political experience. It was a tough race which gave me a deep understanding of the issues facing this district, and a personal connection with thousands of people in our community. I hope to earn their support again in this race, and I will work hard to represent their interests in Lansing,” said Longjohn. “Today, there is not a single physician in the Michigan Legislature, and I believe my leadership can be valuable.”