As a journalist, I came across an interesting article from the American Homefront Project about political candidates campaigning on their military experience. One such candidate is New York Representative Nick LaLota, who is emphasizing his U.S. Navy service in his reelection campaign. In a recent campaign ad, LaLota introduced himself through his military background, and even incorporated a saluting officer silhouette in the “o” of his name on lawn signs.
LaLota, a Republican congressman running for reelection in New York’s first congressional district on Long Island, believes that veterans can make great public servants due to the self-sacrifice and teamwork skills instilled by the military. He emphasized the importance of putting the ship and shipmates before oneself, which he considers a valuable lesson for serving in government roles.
In the past, military service was a common credential for political candidates, with about 75% of Congress members having served during World War II and Vietnam. However, with the transition to an all-volunteer force, the number of veterans in Congress has decreased to one-third. To address this issue, programs like the one at Syracuse University are helping veterans with political aspirations by providing training on campaign strategies, fundraising, and translating military experience into public service.
Steven Lux from Syracuse University’s Veterans Program for Politics and Civic Engagement highlighted the skills and capabilities of military personnel, emphasizing the need to harness their potential for public life. The program aims to demystify the process of running for office and help veterans navigate the political landscape, especially if they are new to the political scene.
Despite their leadership and teamwork qualities, many veterans entering the political arena may struggle with party affiliation and understanding the dynamics of running for office. Lux explained that some military individuals may identify as moderates or independents, which can pose challenges in the political realm where party lines are significant.
Nick LaLota views his Navy service as a defining aspect of his candidacy, signaling to voters his values and priorities. He believes that his military background not only reflects his past actions but also shapes his future decisions as a potential public servant. On the other hand, his Democratic challenger, former CNN anchor John Avlon, has criticized LaLota as being too extreme for office, although Avlon’s campaign did not provide a comment on the matter.
Overall, the article sheds light on the importance of military experience in politics and the efforts to encourage veterans to participate in public service. With 188 veterans currently running for Congress, it is evident that their unique perspectives on issues like national security and veterans’ benefits can enrich the political landscape. The Syracuse University program has graduated numerous candidates over the years, showcasing the potential of military personnel to transition into elected positions and make a difference in government.
