Securing the Veteran Vote: The Case for Clear, Actionable Policies in 2024

Veterans vote. And in this highly anticipated and contentious election year, their votes have a significant impact. Both parties appear aware of this: vice presidential candidates Vance and Walz have appealed to their veteran status on the campaign trail since being selected for the ticket. But a stump speech is one thing – policy is another. As the November election draws near, both political parties must present clear, actionable solutions that address veterans’ issues, such as homelessness, mental health, and food insecurity, and improve health care and living conditions for active-duty personnel.

Veterans are more likely to be registered to vote and to have voted in recent elections than their non-military peers, with a poll by Mission Roll Call finding that 98% of veterans are actually registered nationwide. With over 18 million veterans residing in the United States and their significant turnout numbers in the 2022 elections, their collective voice is influential and powerful in local, state, and national elections. Candidates who are interested in winning these votes need to present clear, actionable plans to address veterans’ issues once in office. Anything less is just lip service.

Service members transitioning to civilian life face significant challenges, from accessing quality healthcare, to attaining gainful employment, or receiving adequate mental health support. These issues are distinct but interrelated, and veterans who struggle in one area often end up in a cycle of challenges that is increasingly difficult to break.