Submit a tip
Do you have info to share with HuffPost reporters? Here’s how.
Matt Dababneh, former Chief of Staff to Congressman Brad Sherman, was elected to the California State Assembly in November 2013. He represents the 45th Assembly District communities of Bell Canyon, Calabasas, Canoga Park, Chatsworth, Encino, Hidden Hills, Northridge, Reseda, Sherman Oaks, Tarzana, West Hills, Winnetka, and Woodland Hills. A fourth-generation Valley resident, Dababneh was born and raised in the San Fernando Valley. He graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles with a degree in Political Science. Upon graduating from UCLA, Dababneh worked on John Kerry's presidential campaign, where he was inspired to pursue a career in public service. For eight years, he served as the District Chief of Staff and Senior Aide to Congressman Brad Sherman where he assisted thousands of Valley residents and businesses with federal and local concerns. Dababneh worked with seniors needing help with their Medicare and Social Security benefits, homeowners struggling to avoid foreclosure on a family home, and businesses trying to resolve disputes with the IRS. Since being elected to the State Assembly, Dababneh has focused on bringing jobs to the Valley, making it easier for families to purchase a home, improving access to healthcare and expanding educational opportunities for college age students. In 2014 Dababneh was appointed as an Assistant Majority Whip for the Majority Caucus, and in January of 2015 he began serving as the Chairman of the Banking and Finance Committee. As Chairman he has focused on increasing access to capital in underserved communities, financial literacy in younger generations, increasing consumer protections and combating predatory lending. Dababneh also serves on the Revenue and Taxation, Privacy and Insurance Committees. Dababneh is also an active community volunteer and has served on the board of several local non-profit organizations, including the Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission, the Valley Cultural Center, Phoenix House Juvenile Drug Rehabilitation Academy and the House of Hope.