Matt Joins the Fight
Matt Pulver is running to represent the newly drawn District 5 on the Athens-Clarke County Commission. Pulver is an Athenian of more than 25 years and a proud progressive Democrat.
“As Athens grows, too many are being left behind,” said Pulver. “Too many of us can no longer afford rent or a mortgage in many parts of town. Even worse, far too many Athenians are trapped in poverty. Racism and bigotry still shape the lives and prospects of so many Athenians. We must attack these problems head on. That is why I am running for the County Commission in District 5.”
Infuriated at Republicans’ attempt to derail Athens’ progressive future, Matt felt a sense of duty to enter politics. “They tried it,” said Pulver, “but they won’t win.”
“I’m running because Athens’ progressive future got attacked by outside forces, Trump-inspired Republicans, who tore apart our elected government. One year after Republicans stormed the Capitol to destroy democracy, Republicans closer to home set their sights on our democracy here. The fight has come to Athens,” said Pulver.
“District 5 voters who wanted a chance to re-elect their commissioner can’t. That fundamental democratic promise was taken from them. So, somebody had to step up—and we all have to stand up. They hit us. So we hit back. This is what Athens does. We don’t back down; we step up. They will not disrupt or derail our movement toward racial and economic justice, a green energy future, and an inclusive Athens that works for everyone.”
Matt is proud to have started his family in the city he loves, and he resides in the heart of the 5th district with his wife Leslie and two young boys, ages four and three. For years, Pulver has worked for higher wages and a more inclusive and equitable Classic City. He served on the board of the Economic Justice Coalition and as a leader in the UGA Living Wage Coalition, which together fought to lift the wages and salaries for thousands of the university’s lowest-paid workers. As a writer, Matt has worked to highlight the racial and economic injustices that have marked Athens, past to present.
