“I just want to save Texas,” says Fredericksburg resident Matt Long. Born in Abilene, Texas, and descended from four generations of Texans on his mother’s side, Long says his passion for activism is rooted in how he was raised.
“My patriotism has its roots in my upbringing, as well as my travels throughout over forty different countries. Having lived and worked abroad, I truly understand what an incredible country we live in, and the importance of saving it,” says Long.
“I see our country headed in the wrong direction, and my focus is on saving Texas,” and to that end, he has been very active. A former middle school teacher for nine years, Long decided to get involved and put his skills to use in a different capacity. “I became involved with the Fredericksburg Tea Party with the goal of helping educate the next generation. I wanted to ensure that the next generation does not forget how and why this country was formed and the principles it is based upon.”
In the summer of 2012, Long, with the help of the Fredericksburg Tea Party, organized the ‘Vacation Liberty School’ in Fredericksburg, an opportunity for students to learn about America’s history and founding principles. He has since helped other groups in Texas plan and organize their own vacation liberty schools. In Georgetown, Long has had several ‘guest appearances’ as Ben Franklin, entertaining and educating kids about the importance of liberty.
Long’s involvement doesn’t stop there. During the 84th Legislative Session, he frequented Austin, staying up-to-date on the goings on under the pink dome to help educate his colleagues back home.
“Before the 84th Legislative Session began, I made a public commitment to go to Austin weekly and keep track of what our representatives are up to. I had never done anything like this before and it was an eye-opening experience!”
“The realization that very few citizens are involved with the legislative process was a surprise, but at the same time it wasn’t,” Long says. “I very quickly became the go-to person for my community on what was happening in Austin. I relished this responsibility and worked hard to not let anyone down.”
Nonetheless, Long maintains a humble attitude indicative of true service: “I still don’t consider myself ‘political,’ I just want to save Texas!”
Long gives credit to God first and then to former Fox News pundit and alternative media pioneer Glenn Beck for opening his eyes and driving him to get involved. Long says, “My life has changed completely since I became involved. I rarely have time for hobbies but when I do, I love to read. Of course, my reading list has also changed from fiction to American history!”
When he’s not busy keeping up to date on politics and educating his neighbors, Long enjoys volunteering for the Hill Country Community Needs Council and the Oak Hills Church-Fredericksburg Campus. He attended Oregon State University and is happily married to his wife, Gayle.
