Matthew Montavon

D

Won the August 18, 2026 Democratic primary

Matthew Montavon is a Democratic candidate challenging incumbent Greg Steube. He spent 27 years working for the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization combating hunger and poverty, after service in the Peace Corps.[2]

Basic profile — the most important sourced facts we found.

Positions on the issues

  • OpposesExpand immigration enforcement and deportations

    Supports a comprehensive pathway to citizenship for Dreamers and long-term undocumented immigrants rather than increased enforcement.[2]

    “I will also work on immigration reform to create a comprehensive pathway to citizenship for Dreamers and long-term undocumented immigrants who contribute to our country.”
  • SupportsFaster transition away from fossil fuels

    Lists combating climate change and transitioning to renewable energy among his policy passions.[2]

  • SupportsProtect legal access to abortion

    Lists defending a woman's right to make her own healthcare decisions among his policy priorities.[2]

  • SupportsExpand public health coverage

    Says he wants universal health care and protecting Social Security and Medicare.[2]

In their words — priorities

  • Says he will work to fund government programs and expand public services including education, renewable energy transition, voting access, foreign aid, and civil rights protection.[2]
  • Supports immigration reform to create a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers and long-term undocumented immigrants.[2]

Background

  • Born in South Bend, Indiana, into a family of nine children; worked odd jobs from high school through college to support himself.[2]
  • Served in the Peace Corps and worked six years with local governments and national associations before 27 years with the UN Food and Agriculture Organization.[2]
  • Currently serves as President of the Sarasota Democratic Hispanic Caucus and volunteer co-coordinator of the AARP Tax-Aide program.[2]

Campaign money

Raised $96K · spent $73K · $24K cash on hand (through 2026-07-29) FEC filing ↗

Also on the ballot for this seat: Greg Steube, Michael Quirk · Compare side by side

Sources cited in this profile

  1. 2.Matthew Montavon · Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey Candidate's own words