Our Team
Lucinda Ware - Partner
Lucinda Ware is a seasoned political strategist with extensive experience in electoral politics, public service, and advocacy. She currently serves as Senior Advisor to Wes Moore for Maryland and previously held the role of Deputy Chief of Staff in Governor Wes Moore’s administration.
Ware has played a pivotal role in national campaigns, including serving as National Political Director for Senator Amy Klobuchar’s 2020 presidential campaign and working on Former Secretary Pete Buttigieg’s 2017 campaign for the Democratic National Committee (DNC). She also served as Political Director for Chris Van Hollen’s first U.S. Senate campaign, where she was part of a successful and talented team that helped secure a decisive victory.
Beyond campaigns, Ware has worked with organizations such as Emily’s List, the Movement Voter Project, the Economic Justice Coalition, and the Impact Project, focusing on leadership development, training, and advocacy. She previously served as Deputy Director of Policy & Campaigns at the ACLU’s Democracy Division, specializing in First Amendment issues, security, privacy, and surveillance policies.
As a partner at WC Strategies, Ware provides strategic guidance to candidates, labor unions, nonprofits, and corporations nationwide. She serves on the board of Park Heights Renaissance, is a member of the Columbia, MD chapter of The Links, Incorporated, and the Junior League of Baltimore.
A Maryland native, she resides in Baltimore, MD.
Matt Cramer - Managing Partner
Matt Cramer is an accomplished political strategist and the Managing Partner of WC Strategies. With a strong track record of success, he has become a go-to expert in political campaigns and public policy development. Matt is renowned for delivering creative, results-driven solutions that not only secure victories for his clients but also ensure they meet their campaign objectives while in office.
Since 2018, Matt has achieved an impressive win rate of over 90%, having led campaigns for a diverse range of races, including ballot initiatives, local elections, and state seats. He has served in pivotal roles such as Campaign Manager, General Consultant, Field Director, Communications Director, and Fundraiser. Notably, he has managed and consulted on some of Maryland’s most high-profile races and continues to work with the state’s most promising political figures.
At WC Strategies, Matt provides comprehensive management, consulting, and communications services to clients across the political, union, corporate, and non-profit sectors. His expertise has made him a trusted partner to organizations and individuals navigating complex political landscapes.
Matt earned his Bachelor’s degree in Government and Public Policy from the University of Baltimore, graduating summa cum laude.
Heather Bertling - Associate
With extensive experience in both local and state politics, Heather has spent years working to shape policy and drive change within the Baltimore region. Having served with the Baltimore City Council and the Baltimore City Delegation, Heather brings a deep understanding of the legislative process and the nuances of municipal and state governance.
In addition to legislative work, Heather has played a key role in several political campaigns across Baltimore City and County, leveraging strategic insights to build grassroots support and drive voter engagement. With a proven track record of effective collaboration, policy advocacy, and political strategy, Heather is committed to advancing issues that matter most to local communities and ensuring that public service is both inclusive and impactful.
Heather’s expertise extends beyond campaign work, having built relationships with policymakers, activists, and community leaders to create lasting, positive change in the region.
Riya Patel - Associate
Riya Patel works as an Associate at WC Strategies. She is a Ph.D. student in Public Policy specializing in Public Management. She earned her B.A. in Political Science from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). With prior experience in state politics, Riya brings an understanding of policy dynamics and governance to her work. Her research interests include public management strategies, institutional effectiveness, and the intersection of policy and administration.