I’ve spent my life standing up for people who need a voice: soldiers, families, seniors, veterans, and parents fighting for their kids. That’s exactly the kind of leadership I’ll bring to Congress.

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<h1 style="text-align: center;">About Matt Adams</h1><img src="https://run.imgix.net/3cec5b98-eef3-4970-8188-71eef2bedbca/5f8b674a-7c69-4843-b459-de40451e0d8d/5f8b674a-7c69-4843-b459-de40451e0d8d.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=162%2C268%2C860%2C1762&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="left" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed"><h3 style="text-align: left;">Matt Adams is a retired Lieutenant Colonel in the JAG Corps of the US Army Reserve and will bring extensive federal government experience from both his military and civilian occupations to the role of Congressman. Matt has served his hometown, the State of NJ and the United States of America for his entire adult life and wants to continue serving as your congressman in the 12th.</h3>Political ExperienceMatt Adams had the honor of serving two terms on the Middlesex Borough Council, including appointments as Council President, Fire Commissioner, and Finance Chair. He was part of the Democratic team that brought flood protection to Middlesex, unlocking tens of millions in federal and state funding to protect the community. Matt also served as a Middlesex County Democratic Committeeperson and continues to advise local leaders on ways to improve life in Middlesex Borough.Military ServiceMatt retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve’s JAG Corps, wrapping up a 30-year military career in 2015 that included time in the New Jersey Army National Guard, the IRR, and 14 years as a JAG officer in the Army Reserve.After 9/11, Matt was mobilized twice to support critical missions. Matt ensured that all the soldier's legal affairs were in order, including Wills and Powers of Attorney, so that soldiers could focus on the battlefield, rather than their family at home. Matt also served as a Trial Counsel, where he helped commanders uphold discipline and enforce the Uniform Code of Military Justice.Matt's military journey started back in 1985, when he completed Basic Training. Two years later, after graduating from Army ROTC at Rutgers University, Matt was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Signal Corps. He spent his early years on active duty with the NJ Army National Guard, helping roll out a new battlefield communications system at the 250th Signal Battalion, a Plainfield, NJ-based unit.Professional CareerOutside the military, Matt built a career as a federal government contracts attorney in the defense technology sector. It was a natural fit, blending his legal expertise with the leadership and insight gained from the Army. For 10 years, Matt held a Top-Secret clearance, working on sensitive and mission-critical government projects.Matt also spent four years as a fundraiser at Rutgers University, helping raise millions of dollars. Some of his proudest contributions included fundraising efforts for Rutgers’ adult autism center, Veterans programs, and more.Community InvolvementFor the past 15 years, Matt has been a proud member of the John W. Lupu American Legion Memorial Post 306, where he served as Commander for two years and First Vice Commander for four. After devastation from Hurricane Ida in 2021, Matt led the effort to rebuild the entire post. As a Legionnaire, Matt has helped countless Veterans with issues ranging from home repair, to resolving legal issues, to placement in nursing facilities.Matt also serves as the President of the Arc Foundation of Somerset County, a role he has held for five years. He worked closely with the Arc team to enhance programming, maintain strong compliance standards, and advocate for better services for the special needs community. One of his proudest moments? Building four new cabins at Camp Jotoni, giving more individuals a chance to experience the joy of summer camp.FamilyMatt, the proud father of three amazing sons, has shared custody and raised them with love, resilience, and dedication. One of Matt's sons has significant disabilities, and advocating for him became a major part of Matt's life. He's filed multiple Due Process claims to fight for his son's education and challenge the system when it failed to meet his needs. Matt's advocacy helped improve the District's special education program, not just that of his son.Matt's son Trevor graduated from Rutgers, and Trevor's twin, Tower - his name honors those lost on 9/11 - is thriving in a wonderful adult program for individuals with disabilities. Matt's youngest son Nate is in his third year at TCNJ, where he is studying Finance, and is Captain of the Men's Track Team.Over the years, Matt coached or helped coach more than 20 youth sports teams, being part of their lives on and off the field has been one of his greatest joys.Matt has spent the last 12 years with Janine Purcaro, an incredible partner and leader. She currently works in Princeton, NJ, as a Chief Operating Officer for a non-profit institution, and is the proud mom of adult twins who are now starting families of their own.

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The final 5K run will be in Matt's hometown of Middlesex Borough - Join Matt on the eve of the primary election to Run with him for Congress!

Running for Congress Mile 100! Middlesex Borough, Victor Crowell Park

Running for Congress Mile 100! Middlesex Borough, Victor Crowell Park

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"Running for Congress" 5K in Hillsborough, Woodfield Park

Join Matt on his next stop in his 5K in every town tour of NJ-12

Memorial ceremony at 10, Parade kick-off at 10:45, American 250 Celebration at the end of the parade @ 707 Legion Avenue, Middlesex, NJ. Sign up to march or enter at <a href="mailto:recreation@middlesexboro-nj.gov">recreation@middlesexboro-nj.gov</a>

Middlesex Borough Memorial Day Service &amp; Parade that ends at the towns' America 250 Celebration - emcee LTC (ret) Matt Adams

Memorial ceremony at 10, Parade kick-off at 10:45, American 250 Celebration at the end of the parade @ 707 Legion Avenue, Middlesex, NJ. Sign up to march or enter at <a href="mailto:recreation@middlesexboro-nj.gov">recreation@middlesexboro-nj.gov</a>

Middlesex Borough Memorial Day Service & Parade that will end at the America 250 Celebration

"Running For Congress" 5K in Spotswood

5K in Spotswood "Running For Congress

African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey in partnership with League of Women Voters of Lawrence Township Congressional Candidate Forum

Hear where Matt stands on key issues such as: Economic opportunity, criminal justice, healthcare access, affordable housing, community investment, public safety &amp; more

Mercer County Community College COngressional Candidate Forum

Running for Congress Literally, Monroe, Thompson Park

Join Matt on his next stop in his 100-mile run through NJ-12

Meet, Greet, Sign, & Dine

Meet Matt in his hometown, enjoy hamburgers and hotdogs while we discuss important issues. Sign our petition to get Matt on the General Election ballot

Click here to join: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DYm4guuxohB/">https://www.instagram.com/p/DYm4guuxohB/</a>

Meet the Underdogs - Virtual Town Hall

Running for Congress Literally Hopewell Township Recreational Park

"Running for Congress" 5K in East Brunswick

Join Matt on his next stop in his 5K tour of every township in CD-12

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The solution is straightforward: we need a tax code that actually works for working and middle‑class Americans. That means reducing their financial burden and ensuring the ultra‑wealthy pay their fair share.

Fixing the Tax Code for Fairness 

Panel Discussion and Networking with NJ-12 Candidates

Democrats of Renaissance Meeting

Panel discussion and networking with the NJ-12 Candidates

Monroe Democratic Party Meeting

Running for Congress Literally, Princeton Battlefield State Park

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Virtual Town Hall - Ask Me Anything!

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Virtual Town Hall

Join Matt in his 2nd running event - Rain or Shine!

Dunellen Run at Columbia Park

Join Matt in his second run event - Rain or Shine!

DUNELLEN RUN AT COLUMBIA PARK

Join Matt on his next stop in his 100-mile run through NJ-12.

Running for Congress Literally, South Bound Brook, Meet @ D&amp;R Canal Parking Lot

Running for Congress Literally

Join Matt and his son Tower at the Arc of Somerset County's Rockin' Breakfast Run 5K to Step up for the Arc! Link to sign up: <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/BridgewaterTownship/StepUpforTheArcofSomersetCounty5KatDukeIslandPark">https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/BridgewaterTownship/StepUpforTheArcofSomersetCounty5KatDukeIslandPark</a>

Running for Congress Literally, Rockin' Breakfast Run for the Arc of Somerset!

Join Matt and his son Tower at the Arc of Somerset County's Rockin' Breakfast Run 5K to Step up for the Arc! Link to sign up: <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/BridgewaterTownship/StepUpforTheArcofSomersetCounty5KatDukeIslandPark">https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/BridgewaterTownship/StepUpforTheArcofSomersetCounty5KatDukeIslandPark</a>

Running for Congress Literally, Bridgewater, Bel Air Park

Given my extensive experience in the U.S. military, I know exactly where our defense budget is bloated. I will keep our country safe while reallocating the exorbitant amount of money we spend on defense towards social services and achieving our democratic priorities.

Cutting Defense Spending

Running for Congress Literally Hopewell Borough, Hopewell Park

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"...Adams (a retired U.S. Army Reserve Lt. Colonel): "The administration is literally doing nothing .... We need human intervention. We need to regulate AI."

CD-12 tangle in Princeton

Only four runs left, sign up soon to join Matt on his 100-mile run through NJ-12!.

Running for Congress Literally, Moody Park, Ewing

Only four runs left, sign up soon to join Matt on his 100-mile run through NJ-12!

Matt Adams, a former borough councilman and lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve, is running for Congress in New Jersey’s 12th congressional district

N.J. Globe Interview with Matt Adams

The Future of CD12: A Candidate Conversation

Hear from Matt and join the meet and greet afterwards!

Hopewell Valley Democratic Club

Running for Congress Literally, Jamesburg JFK School

Running for Congress Literally! Montgomery Veterans Park

Join Matt at his penultimate run in Bound Brook as he approaches the end of his quest to run and meet constituents in every one of the 32 towns in our district!

Running for Congress Literally, Bound Brook

I’m deeply committed to the Constitution. I’ve studied it, debated it, pledged my loyalty to it, and yes, I was ready to risk my life defending it.But let’s be honest: it feels like it’s becoming an afterthought. We can't let that happen. It's meant to be our structural framework, not a dusty relic.

Defending The Constitution

Running for Congress Literally, South River, Edward Grekoski Park

Join Matt for this midday run through West Windsor!.

Running for Congress Literally, West Windsor

Join Matt for this midday run through West Windsor!

Ask Me Anything r/politics

Ask Matt Anything on r/politics this Tuesday evening

Ask Me Anything - r/politics

Join Matt Adams on Zoom and discuss with us

"Running for Congress" 5K in Cranbury

Our youth are the future. I support initiatives that will strengthen and fortify our younger generation, including new ways to help first-time homebuyers build meaningful down payments through tax-advantaged savings tools.

Empowering the Next Generation

Impromptu 5K Helmetta

Join Matt in Helmetta Lake Park on the next stop on his 5K in every town

Running for Congress Literally Memorial Park, Manville

Join Matt in the next stop of his 100-mile 5K in all 32 towns of NJ-12

Trust in government starts with integrity. I will advocate for robust conflict-of-interest rules across all branches, Executive, Legislative, and Judicial, with real penalties for violations. This is how we restore faith in our institutions.

Restoring Integrity in Government

Artificial Intelligence is transforming our world, but it must be managed responsibly. I will work to ensure that AI is regulated in ways that safeguard humanity by preventing misuse, protecting civil rights and promoting democratic values.

Responsible AI Regulation

Social media algorithms are increasingly manipulating and targeting individuals. I will champion legislation that regulates these platforms, demanding transparency and accountability so that the privacy and well-being of you and your family are protected.

Protecting Our Communities from Big Tech

Our veterans and special needs populations require our unwavering support. Veterans deserve access to healthcare, housing, mental health services and good jobs. And we also need to show up for individuals with special needs and their families-supporting them with dignity, resources, and lifelong care.

Honoring Veterans and Supporting those with Special Needs

Too many Americans are being priced out of basic human needs such as housing and healthcare. Going to the grocery store should not be a source of stress. I support initiatives that will ease the financial burden on working families. This includes policies that expand access to essential services. These policies protect your right to live where you choose to and reap the benefits of your hard work.

Affordability

Running for Congress Literally, Stacy Park along the Delaware

Join Matt along the Delaware River for a scenic run in Trenton!

Running for Congress Literally,  Trenton State House

"Running for Congress" 5k in Old Bridge

Matt Adams Meet and Greet

Per direction from the President, Immigration and Customs Enforcement has become an occupying force in our Nation's cities, intimidating, bullying and even murdering US Citizens. This must be stopped, and I will fight to end the violence brought about by this mismanaged organization.

Slash ICE's Budget

Running for Congress, Literally, Plainfield Cedar Brook Park

Monroe Meet & Greet

Talk policy with Matt - Invitation Only

LGBTQ 510 Come. Listen. Ask. Learn

Hope Rises Up and Prism-Bending the Light are partnering with Hopewell Valley Regional School District and Hopewell Valley Municipal Alliance for a day centered in education and Advocacy surrounding issues that impact the LGBTQ+ community, particularly their students

<h3>Matt Adams Campaign Hits the Ground Running, Literally! With a 5K in Every Town Across NJ-12</h3>Middlesex, NJ — May 20, 2026 — Matt Adams isn’t just running for Congress, he’s running through District 12, and he is approaching the finish line.Throughout the past two months and moving forward in the final two weeks of the Congressional race, Retired Lieutenant Colonel Matthew Adams has laced up his sneakers and will be logging more than 100 miles across all 32 municipalities in New Jersey’s 12th Congressional District. Nearly every day now Matt has been completing a 5K in each town of NJ-12. From Princeton’s historic battlefield to the trails of Thompson Park in Monroe, Matt Adams has quite literally hit the road to meet voters where they are.“This campaign is about showing up, not just talking about service, but living it,” said Adams, a retired Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve JAG Corps. “Running through every town in NJ-12 reminds me that progress takes endurance, teamwork, and a good pair of sneakers.”The “Running for Congress, Literally!” tour underscores Matt Adams’s commitment to connecting with every corner of New Jersey’s 12th District. Each 5K has served as a chance to meet residents face-to-face, listen to local concerns, and highlight the shared values that unite the district.The effort reflects Matt’s belief that leadership means showing up, not just in words, but in action, and that progress starts by taking the first step together. Matt invites everyone to join him on the trail and be part of the movement. Visit<a href="https://mattadamsforcongress.com?utm_source=chatgpt.com"> Matt Adams for Congress</a> and check out the Events page to see when he’ll be running through your town.The campaign has been releasing highlight reels on the campaign’s Instagram, “mattadamsfornj12,” and&nbsp; Facebook page, Matt Adams, throughout the duration of the 5K series, showcasing Matt’s journey through the district’s parks, neighborhoods, and landmarks as a visual reminder that NJ-12’s strength lies in its unity and shared momentum.<h3>About Matt Adams</h3>Matt Adams is a retired Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve JAG Corps and lifelong public servant. His campaign for Congress in New Jersey’s 12th District is guided by a belief in service, integrity, and community engagement. He’s now taking that message on the road, one stride at a time.

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Matt Adams 5K Press Release

Town Hall - Focus on Veterans

Have dinner with Matt at the Old Bridge American Legion, Post 177 located in East Brunswick and join us for a discussion of veterans issues, military spending, and other key issues to our campaign.

Matt Adams Town Hall Discussing Vetreran's Issues

Join Matt and the amazing crew from the YMCA for the 48th annual Pennington Day 5K run!

48th annual Hopewell Valley YMCA 5K at Pennington Day!

Running for Congress Literally, Milltown, Gloria Bradford Borough Park

Running for Congress Literally Maple Street Park, Old Bridge

Look for Matt and his campaign team running at this, not in NJ-12, but iconic run to kick off Memorial Day weekend! Official race sign up is closed. <a href="https://www.springlake5.org/">https://www.springlake5.org/</a>Matt and team will also be at Bar A for their annual post-run celebration event at 703 16th Ave, Lake Como, NJ if you'll be at the shore and want to chat with Matt!

The Spring Lake Five Mile Run

Look for Matt and his campaign team running at this, not in NJ-12, but iconic run to kick off Memorial Day weekend! Official race sign up is closed. https://www.springlake5.org/

Matt and team will also be at Bar A for their annual post-run celebration event at 703 16th Ave, Lake Como, NJ if you'll be at the shore and want to chat with Matt!

Running for Congress Literally, Plainsboro Park

"Running for Congress" 5K in Montgomery

Running for Congress Literally East &amp; North Brunswick, Bicentennial Park

Running for Congress Literally East Brunswick, Bicentennial Park

"Running for Congress" 5K in Memorial Run Park

"Running for Congress" 5K in Hopewell

Matt Adams Enters Race for Congress in New Jersey’s 12th District Veteran, Constitutional Advocate, and Community Leader Launches Campaign Focused on Accountability and Everyday Family PrioritiesMiddlesex, N.J. — Matthew Adams, a retired U.S. Army Reserve Lieutenant Colonel in the Judge Advocate General's (JAG) Corps, longtime community advocate, and corporate technology attorney, has officially announced his campaign for the U.S. House of Representatives in New Jersey’s 12th Congressional District.Adams brings more than three decades of military service and public leadership to the race. From standing up for veterans and working families to supporting people with disabilities, his record shows a deep commitment to service and results. His campaign aims to restore constitutional balance, strengthen Congress’s role, and bring practical solutions to people feeling overlooked by Washington.“For 30 years, I took an oath to defend the Constitution, and I meant it,” Adams said. “That oath didn’t expire when I hung up my uniform. I’m running for Congress because our system only works when elected leaders take responsibility. Right now, Congress isn’t holding up its end of the deal.”Adams began his military service in 1985 with Basic Training, eventually earning his commission through Rutgers University’s Army ROTC in 1987. He started in the Signal Corps with the New Jersey Army National Guard, helping roll out a new battlefield communications system. Over his 30-year career, including 14 years in the Army Reserve, he served in key roles across multiple disciplines, including two post-9/11 mobilizations. His mission? Ensuring that soldiers and their families had their estate affairs in order before heading into harm’s way, and upholding military justice through prosecutorial work.Beyond the uniform, Adams served two terms on the Middlesex Borough Council, working as Fire Commissioner, Finance Chairman, and Council President. He helped secure millions in federal and state funds for local flood protection. He’s been a Democratic committeeperson and continues to work closely with local leaders to improve the quality of life in the region.Adams also has a stellar civilian legal career. Matt helps guide his corporate clients on their responsibilities when interacting with the U.S. Government.&nbsp; Matt has held a Top-Secret U.S. Government clearance, which recognizes a level of trustworthiness that only a thorough vetting can reveal. Adams has maintained that trust with the utmost pride.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Adams' policy goals stem from lived experience and a deep respect for the Constitution. Matt believes Congress must reassert its authority, especially when it comes to the federal budget. He’s pushing for a fairer tax system that eases the load on working families and ensures the ultra-wealthy pay their fair share.Adams is tackling today’s toughest challenges head-on. His campaign focuses on common-sense guardrails for AI and big tech, transparency for social media algorithms, and bold investments in national service programs for young Americans. He’s also proposing new ways to help first-time homebuyers build toward meaningful down payments through tax-advantaged savings tools.“Government should work for the people, not for lobbyists, unchecked power, or systems with no accountability,” Adams said. “We need real ethics rules that actually mean something, and leaders who aren’t afraid to enforce them.”Adams is also prioritizing support for veterans and individuals with special needs. Matt is a father of three, one of whom is severely disabled. A longtime special-needs advocate, he has firsthand experience navigating the complex systems that too often fail families. His work has focused on improving access to education, healthcare, housing, and lifelong support services, efforts he continues as President of the Arc Foundation of Somerset County.Matt is a 15-year member and former Commander of American Legion Post #306 in Middlesex, N.J. Adams led the post's rebuilding efforts after Hurricane Ida while also providing essential support to numerous veterans in need.“I’ve spent my life standing up for people who need a voice: soldiers, families, seniors, veterans, and parents fighting for their kids,” Adams said. “That’s exactly the kind of leadership I’ll bring to Congress.”About Matt Adams: Matt Adams retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Army Reserve and also served in the New Jersey Army National Guard.Disclaimer: Use of his military rank, job titles and photographs in uniform does not imply endorsement by the Department of the Army, New Jersey Army National Guard, or Department of Defense. For more information, visit <a href="mailto:matthew@mattadamsforcongress.com" style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">MattAdamsForCongress.com.</a>Contributions can be mailed to: Matt Adams for Congress, PO Box 91, Middlesex, NJ 08846###<h3 style="text-align: center;"></h3>

Matthew Adams Enters Race for Congress in New Jersey’s 12th District Veteran, Constitutional Advocate, and Community Leader Launches Campaign Focused on Accountability and Everyday Family Priorities

Matt Adams for Congress: Press Release

Join Matt in Rocky Hill for this 5K in his 100-mile run through NJ-12

Running for Congress Literally, Millstone Park

The United States Constitution is the foundation of our democracy! Congress has seeded too much of its power to the corrupt president! Right now, Congress needs to reassert itself as a co-equal branch, especially when it comes to controlling the nation's purse strings. When that power slips away, so does the power of the people.

Restoring Congressional Power

LGBTQ 501

Hope Rises Up and Prism-Bending the Light are partnering with Hopewell Valley Regional School District and Hopewell Valley Municipal Alliance for a day centered in education and advocacy surrounding issues that impact the LGBTQ+ community, particularly students.

"Running for Congress" in Plainfield

Since the weather is supposed to be cooler, join Matt in Milltown for his next 5K!