America’s veterans, who have defended democracy abroad, are increasingly concerned about its state at home. Their voices are crucial in addressing this urgent issue.
America’s veterans have repeatedly fought to protect our democracy from threats abroad and also fought alongside our allies to liberate people worldwide from authoritarianism. America’s men and women in uniform will rise to this occasion time and time again, but increasingly, those of us who’ve served have begun to also be concerned about the state of democracy here at home.
We ask our members about the state of democracy each year in our Member Survey. This year, 74% of IAVA veterans reported dissatisfaction with how democracy is working in the U.S., compared to just 12% who said they were satisfied. IAVA veterans on the whole are therefore less satisfied than the American people at large, whose satisfaction Gallup recently reported had sunk to 28% as this debate continues to dominate our politics. These numbers should be sounding alarms across all levels of government and our leaders have a lot to grapple with at what is clearly a crucial chapter in the story of our nation.
This is an urgent problem that needs the attention of all of us immediately. And, the veteran voice — the voice of Americans who have demonstrated that they would risk their lives to protect and defend our Constitution — is a crucial voice in this conversation.
Ahead of the 2024 Presidential race, IAVA calls on all candidates to commit to the democracyFirst Promise. This initiative emphasizes the protection of free elections, denouncing political violence, and upholding democratic principles. As veterans who fought for these freedoms, IAVA stands firm in demanding that our leaders prioritize democracy and peaceful governance.
Veterans aren’t a charity. They’re an investment. Donate to help empower IAVA veterans and ensure their voices are heard.
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