About Matthew Wharton
Republican Candidate for Sweetwater County Sheriff
Roots in Sweetwater County
Matthew Wharton was born and raised in Green River, Wyoming, and graduated from Green River High School in 2001. Shortly after graduation, Matthew enlisted in the United States Army as an infantry soldier, serving his country with honor for four years before returning home to the community he loves.
Military Service
Matthew is a proud disabled veteran. His time in the Army taught him discipline, responsibility, teamwork, communication, and the importance of staying calm under pressure. That service, and the sacrifices that came with it, taught him humility and a greater understanding that people often face challenges others cannot see. Those lessons have made him a more patient, grounded, and compassionate servant to the people of Sweetwater County.
Family and Community
After completing his military service, Matthew returned home to Sweetwater County where he met the love of his life, Jennifer. Together they have built a life deeply rooted in this community. Jennifer has spent years working in early childhood care and learning, investing daily in the children and families of Sweetwater County. Their eldest son Landon was raised here and is now heading off to college, and their teenage son Parker is growing up here. This community has been a cornerstone of their family’s life.
Community Involvement
Matthew’s connection to this community has never been limited to his career in law enforcement. Over the years, he has coached youth baseball, youth hockey, traveling youth soccer, and youth football. He has also officiated youth through varsity football and volunteered at local schools.
For Matthew, being involved with local kids, families, schools, and sports has always been about staying connected to the people he serves, not just the job.
Law Enforcement Career
Matthew began his law enforcement career in 2005 and has spent the past two decades serving the people of Sweetwater County with dedication and integrity. His career has included detention, patrol, field training, investigations, digital evidence, child exploitation investigations, and courtroom preparation.
Matthew is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Analytics through Penn State World Campus, reflecting his commitment to staying ahead of the evolving challenges facing law enforcement today.
Resilience and Purpose
Most recently, Matthew faced one of his greatest personal challenges, battling cancer twice in recent years and losing his eye through that journey. He met that challenge head on, and today stands as a two-time cancer survivor whose experience deepened his gratitude, sharpened his perspective, and strengthened his commitment to the people of Sweetwater County. That chapter of his life is behind him, and the resolve it built in him is not.
