Matt Soper

Matthew Soper is a Republican politician currently serving as a member of the Colorado House of Representatives, representing District 54, which includes portions of Mesa and Delta counties on Colorado's Western Slope. Born on July 30, 1984, Soper has built a career in public service and law, holding multiple degrees and engaging in various professional endeavors, including running a research and writing business.

Early life and career

Matthew Soper was born in 1984 and grew up in Colorado, where he developed an interest in political science and law. He pursued higher education at Colorado Mesa University, earning a bachelor's degree in Political Science. His academic journey continued at the University of Edinburgh School of Law, where he obtained a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) in British Law and a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Public International Law. Additionally, he completed another LL.M. in Intellectual Property Law at the University of New Hampshire School of Law. This diverse educational background has equipped him with a strong foundation in legal principles and international relations.

In addition to his academic achievements, Soper is the owner of a research and writing business known as Oxford Strategies, LLC. This venture reflects his expertise in legal and policy research, allowing him to contribute to various projects and initiatives. His professional experience in this capacity has likely informed his approach to legislative work and public policy.

Legislative service

Matthew Soper entered the political arena when he ran for the Colorado House of Representatives in 2018. He sought to replace the retiring incumbent, Yeulin Willett, and ran unopposed in the Republican primary. In the general election, Soper faced Independent candidate Thea Chase and won decisively, securing approximately 66% of the votes cast. This victory marked the beginning of his legislative career, where he has since focused on representing the interests of his constituents in District 54.

In the subsequent election cycle of 2020, Soper again ran unopposed in the Republican primary. He faced Democratic nominee AliceMarie Slaven-Emond in the general election, where he achieved a significant victory, garnering around 74% of the total votes. His continued success at the polls demonstrated his strong support within his district and the effectiveness of his campaign strategies.

Soper's electoral success continued in 2022, when he again faced a Democratic opponent in the general election. He won with approximately 73.8% of the votes, reinforcing his position as a prominent figure in Colorado politics. As of 2024, Soper has announced his candidacy for re-election and, similar to previous years, ran unopposed in the Republican primary. He is set to appear on the ballot in the general election, where he is expected to run unopposed once more.

Throughout his time in office, Soper has navigated various challenges and controversies, including a residency investigation that arose during his initial candidacy. In 2018, questions were raised regarding the address he listed on his candidacy filings, which was a home owned by his mother. The situation escalated when it was revealed that the house had been rented to another family since 2016. Following media scrutiny, Soper's mother evicted the tenants to allow him to reside there. The district attorney conducted an investigation into the matter concerning potential unlawful voting; however, no criminal charges were filed against him.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Colorado House of Representatives, Matthew Soper represents District 54, which encompasses parts of Mesa and Delta counties. This region is characterized by its diverse landscapes, including mountainous areas and agricultural lands. The constituents of District 54 have a range of interests and needs, which Soper addresses through his legislative work.

Soper's policy focus aligns with the values and priorities of the Republican Party, emphasizing limited government, fiscal responsibility, and individual liberties. While specific legislative initiatives and bills he has sponsored or supported are not detailed in the available information, it can be inferred that his background in law and public policy informs his approach to governance. His education and professional experience likely contribute to his understanding of complex legal issues and the implications of various policies on his constituents.

In addition to his legislative responsibilities, Soper's engagement with the community and local issues is critical to his role as a state representative. By addressing the concerns of his constituents, he aims to foster a positive relationship between the government and the people he serves. His continued electoral success suggests that he has effectively communicated his vision and priorities to the voters in District 54.

As he prepares for the upcoming election cycle, Soper remains a significant figure in Colorado politics, with a commitment to representing the interests of his district while navigating the complexities of state governance. His background in law and his experience as a business owner provide him with a unique perspective on the challenges facing his constituents, as well as the broader implications of state policies.