SAN LUIS VALLEY – Seventh Generation Colorado Native Matthew Martinez announced his candidacy for Colorado’s House District 62 Oct. 5.  
Martinez is a United States Marine Corps and Operation Iraqi Freedom Veteran and a graduate of Adams State University.
He sits on the boards ofdirectors for Valley Wide Health Services and the Boys and Girls Club of the San Luis Valley.  
He is also one of the founding members of the Adams State University Veterans Club/Center and is currently the director of the Correspondence Education Program at Adams State.
He also served a term on the Monte Vista City Council.
If elected Martinez promises to focus on four critical issues for the district. He understands the importance of protecting the district’s water, improving health care access, economic development and opportunities for veterans.
 “I will fight to ensure that the district’s water is protected and sustainable practices are recognized, rewarded and utilized. I will also work with local farmers/ranchers to implement a common sense water plan. I will support our county and municipal governments in replacing our aging infrastructure and making sure that our citizens always have clean and safe drinking water," states Martinez.
Improving access to affordable healthcare is pivotal for the district.  No person or family should have to choose between putting food on the table and going to the doctor if they are sick. Martinez believes in Medicare for all and increased support for community health centers and hospitals throughout the district.
Economic Development is critical for our district. "We cannot truly say Colorado is first in economic growth, until ALL of Colorado is first! I will bring in jobs that will not only grow our already great agricultural base, but I want to bring in renewable energy industries, that will not only diversify our economy but give our residents a living wage, and get our economy back on track," he states. "The Veterans of Colorado have dedicated their lives in support of the principles we hold dear and we need to continue to support them. Martinez will work to increase state support for mental health to combat Veteran suicide.  He will also improve accessibility to resources, especially in rural areas, and improve employment opportunities for our Veterans.  
Martinez asks for the support and votes from the residents of House District 62. “I have dedicated my entire life to public service, to being the voice for the undeserved, advocating and influencing change, and above all, listening to the needs of the people.”
To learn more, contribute or volunteer please visit www.martinezhd62.com