Mathis graduated from George Washington University earning a Master of Professional Studies in Strategic Public Relations in 2021.

Before joining the Assembly, Mathis served for 10 years as a Sergeant in the Army National Guard, including two tours in Iraq.

Mathis, who had no previous political experience, ran on his status as a former Army National Guard sergeant and veterans advocate.

[2] In 2018, Mathis faced a serious primary challenge, winning only 30% of the vote and narrowly eliminating Republican Visalia Mayor Warren Gubler.

But in the November general election, he rallied and defeated Democratic Tulare City Councilman Jose Sigala with 58% of the vote.