Scotch Plains Council Primary Candidate: Matthew Adams

SCOTCH PLAINS, NJ — Scotch Plains' preliminary election on June 8 has two candidates running for one open seat on the Township Council. Matthew Adams, 39, is the only Democrat running.

Adams was appointed on April 19 by the township committee to fill a seat left by Suman Dahiya-Shah, who resigned due to personal issues. Adams also currently works as an attorney at law since 2008, partner and national co-chair, White Collar Criminal Defense and Regulatory Compliance Practice, Fox Rothschild LLP.

Adams has three sons Michael 8, Andrew 7, and Nicholas 3. His grandfather, Holmes A. Adams, was a council member and mayor of Neptune City for decades. He is a direct descendent of two American Presidents, John Adams and John Quincy Adams.

Adams has a Bachelors of Science from Rutgers University, 2004 and Juris Doctorate from Seton Hall University School of Law, 2007.

Are you running for office in Scotch Plains? Contact Alexis Tarrazi at alexis.tarrazi@patch.com for information on being featured in a candidate's profile and submitting campaign announcements.

Matthew Adams

Why are you seeking elective office?

Leadership in government is a calling. I think that there is the most significant opportunity to make an impact in local government.

The single most pressing issue facing our township is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

1. Downtown redevelopment
2. Preserving and creating recreation space
3. Effectively administering smart growth — in that order.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

Experience. My career as an attorney has equipped me with the necessary skills to help tackle the most pressing challenges that our community faces. I own a home in Scotch Plains and my children attend our public schools.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

I am an experienced leader with a demonstrated track record of making positive impacts.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I was one of the youngest partners in the history of my AmLaw 100 law firm. I am a trial lawyer that has argued some of the most significant legal cases of our time. I speak truth to power for a living.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

It is time for Scotch Plains to dream big.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.

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