As the 2024 presidential election approaches, U.S. veterans are eager for significant changes. Reports indicate a disturbing spike in veteran homelessness nationwide from 2022 to 2023, with 21% of veterans in Chicago experiencing homelessness and 34% in California lacking homes. In a recent poll by the Georgia-based veteran advocacy group Mission Roll Call, veterans were asked about the most critical veteran-related issue for discussion during the election season. Twenty-eight percent prioritized veteran benefits, while veteran homelessness, veteran healthcare access, and veteran suicide support were also significant concerns. With 18.5 million veterans in the U.S., Mission Roll Call emphasized the importance of veterans’ voices at the voting booth.
Jim Whaley, CEO of Mission Roll Call, highlighted that veterans are integral to the fabric of the nation, defending democracy and providing the freedoms enjoyed by all. However, veterans face severe challenges, including a suicide rate of 17 to 22 veterans per day and up to 40,000 homeless veterans across the country. Whaley deemed this situation an embarrassment for the country and emphasized the need for collective action to address these complex issues. Unemployment significantly contributes to homelessness and suicide among veterans, with 61% of veterans stating they are underemployed. Additionally, 24% of active-duty military personnel experience food insecurity, further underscoring the struggles faced by veterans.
Whaley pointed out that veterans who serve their country should not struggle to afford basic necessities. He emphasized the need to address the disparity faced by veterans transitioning to civilian life, where they may fall behind due to the lack of support. Despite the valuable skills, loyalty, and work ethic veterans bring to the workforce, many are left behind due to systemic challenges. As a nation, Whaley stressed the need to rectify these issues and not leave any veterans behind.
Regarding the upcoming presidential election, Whaley urged both presidential campaigns to prioritize solutions to address veteran homelessness, healthcare access, and employment struggles. Notably, both vice presidential candidates, Sen. J.D. Vance and Gov. Tim Walz, have military backgrounds. Whaley expressed hope that their service would spark substantive discussions on veterans’ issues and underscore the importance of addressing these critical challenges.
Acknowledging the declining recruitment numbers within the Armed Forces, Whaley emphasized the national security implications of not recruiting and retaining the best and brightest. He called for bipartisan recognition of veteran issues, emphasizing that military service remains highly regarded in the country. Whaley underscored the importance of robust proposals to address veteran challenges and change the current trajectory concerning homelessness, unemployment, and healthcare access.
Veterans, according to Whaley, must not lose hope and should ensure their voices are heard by exercising their right to vote. He emphasized that veterans understand the value of a vote, having served in regions where voting rights were limited. Whaley called on both political parties to prioritize the veteran community and tackle the serious challenges facing veterans across the nation. Ultimately, he emphasized the need for all Americans to recognize the sacrifices made by veterans and work together to improve the lives of those who have served their country.
