Matthew Kishman is a Republican serving as the state representative for Ohio's 50th House District, which covers the lower western and eastern parts of Stark County. A lifelong resident of Minerva in Stark County, he was elected in the 2024 Ohio House of Representatives election and is currently in his first term. He lives in Minerva with his two sons and serves as Director of Operations for his family’s business, Kishman’s IGA Markets, which has operated in Stark County for over 70 years. Kishman previously served five years on the Minerva Village Council, where he was reelected to a second term, and has been involved in community service on the Minerva Village Parks Board, Sandy Creek Joint Fire District Board, and Minerva Chamber Board of Directors. He is an active member of the Minerva Rotary Club, Stark County Farm Bureau, and the NRA, and serves on the Government Relations Committee for the National Grocers Association. In the Ohio House, he holds positions as Vice Chair of the Local Government Committee, serves on the Energy, Commerce and Labor, and Small Business committees, and is a member of the Ohio Ireland Trade Commission. Kishman advocates for fiscal responsibility, prioritizes education, supports the Second Amendment, and promotes American energy independence.

Education and Political Experience

Kishman graduated from Minerva High School, where he lettered in football, wrestling, and track. He earned a BA in Communication from Youngstown State University, playing four years as an offensive lineman on the Penguins football team. His political experience includes his current role in the Ohio House , prior service on the Minerva Village Council, and various local boards. Notable committee roles include Vice Chair of Local Government and membership on the Ohio Ireland Trade Commission.