Mathew Philip, a corporate leader and clergyman with deep ties to the Indian American community, is seeking Republican nomination for the Georgia House of Representatives.
Seeking to represent District 25, which encompasses portions of Forsyth and Fulton counties, Philip enters the Republican primary on a platform of fiscal accountability and suburban stability.
Philip, who has called the Cumming area home for 14 years, arrives at the political stage following a three decade career in the private sector. After earning his MBA from the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business, Philip ascended to senior management roles where he oversaw multi-million dollar budgets and complex operational strategies.
He has positioned this professional history as a direct solution to the economic pressures currently facing the district. A prominent figure within the South Asian diaspora, Philip’s background reflects a commitment to the Indian American “success story.”
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His transition from the corporate boardroom to the pulpit further distinguishes his bid; he serves as the pastor of Piedmont Fellowship Church in Cumming. In this role, he leads a multicultural congregation, a position he says has granted him a unique perspective on the challenges facing families from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.
“My heart has always been for the people of this community,” Philip said announcing his candidacy. “Leadership is about listening, serving, and working together to solve problems that affect everyday families.”
Philip’s platform centers on the rising cost of living, which he identifies as the primary concern for his neighbors. He has pledged to advocate for policies that address housing affordability and ensure equitable access to state services.
His campaign emphasizes “people over politics,” a mantra he developed while serving as a board member and president for local homeowners associations. In those roles, he managed shared resources and mediated community needs, gaining experience in local governance at the grassroots level.
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“Families across our community are feeling the pressure of rising costs,” Philip said. “When people are struggling with everyday expenses and housing affordability, it is time for leaders to step forward and focus on solutions.”
Philip’s entry into the race sets up a primary contest against incumbent Republican Todd Jones, who has held the seat since 2017. As a challenger, Philip is leaning on his dual identity as a fiscal conservative and a community servant.
He credits his parents for his civic drive, noting that they taught him that responsible citizenship is defined by how much one gives back to their community.
Throughout the spring, Philip plans to hold a series of listening tours across Forsyth County. He aims to connect with residents who feel overlooked by the current political climate, promising a tenure defined by service and accountability.