Many U.S. veterans are hoping for significant changes as the 2024 presidential election approaches. Veteran homelessness has seen a dramatic increase across the nation, with 21% of veterans in Chicago and 34% in California experiencing homelessness from 2022 to 2023. According to a recent poll by the Georgia-based veteran advocacy group Mission Roll Call, 28% of veterans believe that veteran benefits should be the most important issue discussed during the election season, while other pressing issues include veteran health care access, veteran homelessness, and veteran suicide support.
Jim Whaley, the CEO of Mission Roll Call, emphasized that veterans play a crucial role in the fabric of the country and contribute to the freedoms enjoyed by all. He noted that veterans are gearing up to make their voices heard in the voting booth. However, veterans face numerous challenges, including high rates of suicide and homelessness. Approximately 17 to 22 veterans die by suicide each day, and up to 40,000 veterans are homeless across the country. Whaley described these issues as an “embarrassment for our country” and stressed the importance of addressing them collaboratively.
Unemployment is a key factor contributing to homelessness and suicide among veterans, with about 61% reporting being underemployed. Whaley also highlighted the issue of food insecurity among active-duty military personnel, affecting 24% of individuals. He expressed concern that those who have served their country and risked their lives are unable to provide for themselves and their families. Whaley called for a concerted effort to address these systemic challenges and ensure that veterans receive the support they need to thrive post-service.
Whaley urged presidential candidates to prioritize veterans’ issues and work towards finding solutions. The vice presidential candidates for the upcoming election, Sen. J.D. Vance and Gov. Tim Walz, are both military veterans. Whaley hoped that their personal experiences in the armed forces would inform their policies and bring substantive discussions on veteran-related issues to the table. He stressed the need for bipartisan efforts to address the recruitment and retention challenges facing the Armed Forces, which could have long-term implications for national defense.
The large numbers of veterans experiencing financial struggles, food insecurity, inadequate healthcare, and unemployment highlight the urgency of addressing these issues. Whaley emphasized that the defense of the country is at stake, as recruitment and retention of skilled personnel are essential for national security. He called on Americans to recognize the importance of supporting veterans and ensuring that they have access to the resources they need to thrive. By listening to veterans’ voices and advocating for meaningful change, the country can better serve those who have sacrificed for its freedom and security.
In conclusion, Whaley underscored the importance of veterans’ issues being bipartisan concerns. Military service remains one of the highest regarded institutions in the country, and veterans deserve the support and assistance necessary to lead fulfilling post-service lives. With the upcoming election, veterans have the opportunity to make their voices heard through voting. Whaley emphasized the value of veterans’ votes and encouraged them to engage in the democratic process to ensure that their needs and concerns are addressed by policymakers. By working together, Americans can honor and support the veterans who have served the country with dedication and sacrifice.
