Oconee Conservative Budget
Led the push for a first-in-SC ordinance to cap general fund growth to inflation plus population.
Lower taxes, limited government, safer communities, and real jobs. I fight for accountable government so families can thrive here at home.
I’m Matthew Durham — follower of Christ, husband, father, and Chairman of the Oconee County Council. I hold an MBA from North Greenville University and a BS from Charleston Southern University. A native of Pickens County, I now live in Mountain Rest with my wife Kate, a proud native of this community, and our two children. I bring real-world experience and unwavering conservative conviction to every decision. First, I am conservative, then Republican.
Government works best when it is limited, transparent, and close to the people. I ran to hold the line on taxes, support law enforcement, and create good jobs so families can stay and prosper here. My promise is simple: Tell the truth, fight for your liberty, and put Oconee County first.
"RINOs — Republicans in Name Only — have strayed away from the party’s platform of limited government, individual responsibility, free markets, and traditional values. The worst enemy to the RINO’s is not a Democrat, but a Republican who is actually a conservative, because the contrast will expose the RINO."
Every vote runs through three questions. If any answer is yes, I vote no.
Does it raise taxes or hidden fees?
Does it grow bureaucracy?
Does it infringe on personal liberty?
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Led the push for a first-in-SC ordinance to cap general fund growth to inflation plus population.
Negotiated to stop a proposed school tax increase, protecting taxpayers while ensuring core education priorities are met.
Approved ballistic glass and armored door panels for Sheriff’s Office vehicles and delivered well-deserved pay raises to deputies.
Record-breaking job growth providing opportunities for our children.
Bold, unapologetic support for law enforcement and first responders — delivering major pay increases and resources to keep our communities safe.
Eliminated and permanently banned county funding for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs.
Increased local road funding by 47% without raising taxes — delivering the largest paving contract in county history.
I’m pushing the state to return more gas-tax revenue to counties so we can fix state roads faster and better. We know our roads, we know our priorities, and we can get the job done right.
Drive economic growth by revitalizing local industry and attracting stable, high-wage employers that align with our community’s values.
Invest in deputy safety, training, and recruitment.
Lock in a budget cap tied to inflation and population.
Open books, open meetings, straight answers.
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