Loma Linda, CA — Today, Navy Veteran, Doctor, and Small Business Owner Karen Leigh Matthews –  announced her campaign for Congress in California’s 23rd district, running as an independent candidate to challenge Congressman Jay Obernolte. As a divided Congress drove our country into a government shutdown, Karen's campaign reflects Americans' growing desire for a new political direction that puts working people over party politics.

“Career politicians like Jay Obernolte are cutting taxes for the rich and shutting down the government, while doing nothing to lower prices for everyday Americans,” said Karen Leigh Matthews. “I’m launching this campaign to change that – to listen to the people of this district and make government work for people again.”

“I went to medical school and became a Doctor so that I could help people in my community, and I joined the Navy so I could serve my country. The chaos and division in Washington have compelled me to do more. We’re caught between a party that wants government to fail and a party that can’t make government work, so it’s time for a new perspective. Like many Americans, I’ve never felt at home in either political party, and I believe we can chart a new path forward together. I hope you’ll join me in this grassroots campaign.”

Instead of working to address the out-of-control costs of groceries, health care, and housing, Obernolte voted to cut Medicaid and SNAP benefits for working Californians – including veterans – all to fund massive tax cuts for himself and his wealthy friends. Now those same politicians have let the government shut down. While members of Congress continue to collect their paychecks, our brave men and women in uniform won’t see another paycheck until this is resolved.

Karen is running to put people first and make government work for those who serve and sacrifice, not those who game the system. A native of Loma Linda, Karen has served her country for more than 20 years.  After graduating from Loma Linda University medical school, Karen worked as a Radiologist in the US Navy. After leaving the Navy, she started a small business to help Veterans access the benefits they earned. Now, Karen is running for Congress to make sure every family in the 23rd district can afford the American Dream and everyday essentials – from groceries and rent, to a doctor’s visit when they are sick.

Learn more about Karen’s grassroots campaign at: www.matthewsforcongress.com

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