PORTAGE, MI — Just over 24 hours after launching his campaign fundraising efforts on ActBlue, Dr. Matt Longjohn has already raised $25,000, marking a strong start to his candidacy for Michigan’s 40th State House District. A 5th-generation Kalamazoo County resident and nationally recognized public health leader, Longjohn brings a wealth of experience and a sincere dedication to public service.
With over 25 years of experience in medicine, public health, policy development, coalition-building, and small business, Longjohn offers a unique perspective to the race. He aims to focus political attention on the rapidly deteriorating health care system, and to directly impact policies in Lansing which can help all Michiganders live their healthiest lives. If elected, Longjohn would be the only physician in the Michigan legislature. 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.
“I’m so grateful to those who have already stepped up to help launch this campaign. Launching a campaign like this wasn’t even a remote consideration at the end of 2023, when my wife was completing her last round of chemotherapy. It’s amazing how quickly life can change. After a recent string of family health crises, I feel the urgency to get to Lansing and help avoid looming disasters in healthcare,” said Longjohn.
“Our healthcare system is rapidly becoming more inaccessible and less affordable. We are in trouble, and no one in Lansing is talking about it. Over 450,000 Michiganders have lost their health insurance in the past year. Rising costs of medicines and insurance, workforce shortages, a lack of focus on patients’ needs, and structural inequities in care have all led us to a point where medical errors are the 3rd leading cause of death in the U.S.” Longjohn said. “That’s why I’m in this race: to lift up policy solutions to help everyone achieve their greatest health. In early January, my current State Representative announced she was not going to seek re-election. The next day, my wife told me it was time for me to get back into the public arena to fight for better health for all of us.”