Democratic Bid to Win Over Veteran Voters Ahead of 2024 Presidential Race – Sky Bulletin
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In the lead-up to the presidential election of 2024, the Democratic Party is strategizing to entice military veterans and their families, traditionally seen as a stronghold for Republicans. In North Carolina, one of the states with a significant veteran population and high military presence, signs greet motorists with the message that they’re entering a veteran-friendly zone. Yet, despite historical trends, progressives are eager to challenge the status quo during the Super Tuesday primaries.
With states like Texas, California, Virginia, and North Carolina all playing a role in Super Tuesday, the diverse political leanings of veterans are coming under the spotlight. For instance, Ryan Rogers, a veteran of the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq, criticizes the Biden administration’s handling of the Kabul airport attacks and desires robust leadership to protect U.S. troops. Conversely, Ric Vandett, a Vietnam War veteran, rules out support for former President Donald Trump, citing the January 6 Capitol breach as a pivotal factor.
Despite Trump’s domination in the Republican primaries, his recent controversial statements on foreign policy and military service are providing Democrats an opening. For example, his remarks on NATO’s defense spending targets and Nikki Haley’s husband’s absence from her campaign trail, while he was deployed with the South Carolina Army National Guard, drew criticism.
The opportunity for Democrats lies in peeling away some of the traditionally conservative military voter base, as seen in AP VoteCast data from previous elections. Progressive groups and the Biden campaign are amplifying their outreach, underlining Trump’s past criticisms of the military and questioning his commitment to democratic principles.
However, Democrats face an uphill battle, as military culture often aligns more closely with Republican ‘hierarchical’ values than Democratic ‘egalitarian’ ones. Yet, with the electoral votes of battleground states like North Carolina in the balance, these efforts are considered crucial.
While some veterans hold onto grievances against Biden’s foreign policies, liberal veterans appreciate his administration’s efforts like the 2022 health care legislation for veterans exposed to toxic burn pits. The law represents a significant expansion of veteran benefits and bolsters Biden’s support among those affected.
Veteran participation in elections is notably high, and their influence should not be underestimated. Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America CEO Allison Jaslow underscores that while many politicians proclaim their support for the troops, the true mettle lies in engaging with the costs and implications of war.
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The article is contributed by a member of the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative, which aims to fill gaps in local journalism coverage.
As the 2024 presidential election approaches, Democrats are strategically engaging with veteran and military communities to garner support. Despite the historical trend favoring Republicans, recent political dynamics and policies have created an opening for Democrats to potentially flip this traditionally red constituency. While there remain challenges due to ingrained cultural and political alignments, the Democratic efforts underscore the significance of the veteran vote and reflect the ongoing competition for every demographic in the electoral landscape.
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