As first reported on my Twitter account yesterday, the Florida Democratic Party is hiring Beth Matuga as Finance Director for Senate Victory, the party’s committee dedicated to winning elections in the state Senate.
A native Floridian, Matuga has been working in politics for more than a decade and brings with her strong relationships from Panama City to Miami. As a political consultant, Matuga has advised numerous campaigns and advocacy organizations, including Project New Florida and the League of Women Voters. From 2006 to 2010, she worked for Congressman Allen Boyd’s campaign, and in 2011 served as the FDP’s finance director.
“It’s good to be back at the Florida Democratic Party,” said Matuga. “I’m excited about my new role fighting for our state Senators. As the Florida Democratic Party builds on the historic gains of the past year, I’m ready to ensure that we have the resources needed to protect our Senators and expand our gains.”
Matuga succeeds Stephanie Grutman, who served as finance director for four years to three Democratic Leaders: Senators Nan Rich, Chris Smith, and Arthenia Joyner (wow — there is a line-up of campaigning powerhouses).
In 2012, under Grutman’s, um, leadership, Senate Victory had historic fundraising success and gained seats for the first time in nearly 30 years, ending the Republican supermajority (there’s a line for the resume).
“I’m so thankful that we have had Stephanie’s guidance over the past four years, and we are well-positioned for the 2014 election year,” said Sen. Arthenia Joyner, who, in 2014, will likely not field a competitive candidate against any Republican incumbents. “Beth is prepared to step into this role and take our outstanding finance program even further. With Beth’s strategic insight and lifetime of experience in Florida politics, I am certain that we will have the resources to compete and win next year.”
“Last year, Senate Victory made history,” said FDP chair Allison Tant, evoking the moment when Michael Bluth was so proud because the Bluth Company moved from “Sell” to “Don’t Buy.” “Next year, we have to solidify and expand on those gains. Beth has proven over and over that she has the discipline and expertise to help us win Senate races. It is exciting to have Beth in this vital role.”
