WLRN is branching out to offer our interviews with a picture! Enjoy this May 2nd interview that Thistle did with Elaine Mastromatteo via skype about her experiences in the Green Party as a candidate before she left the party in 2018 over disputes involving identity politics and gender self-id.

From Elaine: I’m 60 years old, live in NE Ohio, and lived here most of my life. Married 36 years, two kids and four grandkids. I’ve done various “side gigs” for money, since my “real job” was always home and family. I’ve turned an interest in history and love of old things into a fairly good knowledge of antiques and collectibles and I worked in that field until I “retired”. I’ve run for office five times, three as a green. Currently I serve on my townships Zoning Board and my County Soil and Water Conservation District board, both appointed, not elected, positions. My husband and I live on a 27 acre farm with a lovely old Victorian home in need of lots of TLC, where we are trying to learn to take care of some of our own food and energy needs, while also keeping a space for wildlife and nature to thrive.