LANGUAGE:
Our nation’s economy is on the wrong track, people are hurting, and career politicians are to blame. I will devote myself to fighting inflation, lowering the cost of gas and utilities, and bringing more affordable housing and better paying jobs to the Valley. I will protect our most vulnerable and will fight any effort to cut Medicare and Social Security. The biggest problem we face is inflation. The price of everything – from food to gas to clothing – has skyrocketed and career politicians have made the problem worse by spending too much and refusing to balance the budget. I come from humble beginnings, growing up right here in the Valley, working manual labor and minimum-wage jobs from a young age. With that foundation, hard work and saving, I started my own small business. Right after 9/11, I joined the Navy and went on to become an FBI special agent. My wife and I are raising our children here. We want the same things for our children as we want for you and your family: a future full of opportunity, where hard-working people get a fair shake and don’t have to live paycheck to paycheck. Together, let’s get our government working for us and bring prosperity to the Valley, building a brighter future for our children and the next generation.
Central Valley Native
Born and raised in California, Michael Maher has deep roots in the Valley and a rich cultural heritage, with an Asian Pacific Islander and Portuguese background. Growing up in a family dedicated to service, Maher's father continues to serve as the pastor of a local church, while his mother worked in his high school’s library. His family’s commitment to service extends across generations, with both parents, as well as their parents before them, having served in the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Army.
In 2001, Michael graduated from Tulare Union High School, and months later, as a student at the College of the Sequoias, he watched the coordinated terrorist attacks on September 11th, which claimed the lives of 2,997 people and injured thousands more. Two months later, at 18 years old, he left college and joined the U.S. Navy to support and defend his country, community, and the oppressed victims of terrorist-led regimes.
Military Service and Education
On November 16, 2001, Michael Maher enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He excelled in the Navy’s Nuclear program, which is widely regarded as the most rigorous academic course in the U.S. military. Demonstrating his dedication and bravery, Maher volunteered for the elite “Silent Service” and served on the USS SALT LAKE CITY (SSN-716), a Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine that was part of the expeditionary forces in the Global War on Terror.
Maher’s academic journey is equally remarkable. He is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy Preparatory School and the U.S. Navy’s Nuclear Power School. He is also an alumnus of Fresno Pacific University, Oxford University, and Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government. Additionally, he graduated from the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia.
FBI Service
Following Maher’s medical retirement from the U.S. Navy, rehabilitation, and work in the private sector in industrial engineering and construction management, he joined the U.S. Department of Justice as a Special Agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, assigned to the National Security Division. As a case agent, Maher was responsible for numerous investigations and involved in many covert human and technical operations, including serving as the Counterproliferation Coordinator for the Los Angeles Field Office. Maher assisted the FBI’s Fresno office, participating in a multi-agency gang sweep that resulted in 36 arrests associated with a gang responsible for murders, robberies, kidnappings, and human trafficking.
Maher received multiple awards for his investigative work, which was included in both the 44th and 45th U.S. Presidents' daily briefings (PDB). He is a recipient of the ODNI award presented in Virginia by the Director of National Intelligence.
Community Service
Michael has a strong commitment to community service and professional development. Previously, he represented the City of Fresno Mayor’s office overseas as part of the Sister Cities International to Punjab and served on a Fresno-based non-profit board focused on providing services for victims of human trafficking. He is a life member of the Naval War College Foundation, an active member of The Pacific Council on International Policy, Society of Former Special Agents of the FBI, Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, Overseas Security Advisory Council, and an associate life member of the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation.
Personal Life
Michael Maher is married to Anne, and together they have two sons. Anne hails from a multi-generational farming family deeply rooted in California’s Central Valley, where they remain actively involved in citrus, tree fruit, and farm management.
Anne’s educational journey took her through San Joaquin Memorial and Immanuel High School. She majored in business and graduated from Fresno Pacific University. Today, she plays an integral role in her family’s business.
Aviation & Business Development
Michael Maher is a seasoned professional in aviation, infrastructure development, water, and energy. He is at the forefront of advancing flight technology, hydrogen, sustainable fuels, and energy production. His work directly benefits California’s dairies, the Valley’s agricultural industry, and local farming communities, showcasing his dedication to both innovation and sustainability. He has completed and delivered real projects throughout California and here in our Valley.
MEET MICHAEL
IN PERSON
Join us at the next campaign event and meet Michael!