Why Are Veterans Not An Issue in the Debates?

2015-09-22T09:46:48-04:00

Why Are Veterans Not An Issue in the Debates?

RP Members do you agree with the article and the lack of concern for Veterans in this upcoming election or are there more important issues?

Your thoughts and comments welcome!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dustin-demoss/veterans-debate_b_8164118.html

With the 2016 presidential election quickly approaching, campaign season is in full swing and boasts no shortage of candidates. Presidential hopefuls from all sides of the political spectrum have pulled no punches when it comes to the multitude of issues currently concerning the American public. In fact, candidates have weighed in on any number of topics, from immigration reform to civil liberties, with incredible diverse and aggressive opinions. Perhaps this willingness to engage and volunteer opinions is what makes the lack of attention to one topic in particular so striking, especially in the glare of the ongoing G.O.P. presidential debates.

Do you know where the candidates stand when it comes to veterans' affairs and healthcare needs?

A Growing Lack of Attention to Veterans

The lack of attention to American veterans and the care they receive once they return home is not necessarily a new development when it comes to presidential debates. Veterans and their supporters faced this same problem in the 2012 debates, for example, where only repeated urging convinced the candidates to briefly consider the topic. And as more and more people are aware, the number of candidates with any sort of military service background is constantly shrinking. Not only is this concerning for a country that is still in the midst of a war that has already spanned 14 years, but it's especially worrisome considering that one of the major topics up for debate is the looming ISIS/ISIL threat and how the United States will engage with it.

In the last two debates there has barely been any mention of veterans, and the talk of going to war only increases. The only mention of veterans is in a jingoistic rather than practical way. Veterans and their issues are being widely appropriated for the political gain of candidates, but no one seems to have an actual plan when it comes to VA reform

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 22 at 2015 9:50 AM

2015-09-22T09:50:36-04:00

COL Mikel J. Burroughs Because we're not a large enough percentage of the total population. In addition I've watched both debates and I have not seen them really address any issue. They are too busy promoting themselves as "I'm the first to ...", "I'm the only one who", to busy talking about each other's records and taking snipes at each other, and cutting down POTUS to even get close to talking about a real issue concerning anything/one.

Response by SSgt Terry P. made Sep 22 at 2015 9:58 AM

2015-09-22T09:58:39-04:00

we do not matter after we serve our purpose and as CPT Private RallyPoint Member stated "not a large enough percentage of the total population" for them to worry about our votes.

Response by SGT David T. made Sep 22 at 2015 10:31 AM

2015-09-22T10:31:34-04:00

I guess I am weird that I really don't need or want much from the VA. I was happy with the GI Bill, and my home loan certificate. I don't use the VA health care system as I have private insurance. For those who need the VA health care system, it needs to be at least good enough to address the vets' health needs both mentally and physically. I just don't know what else would matter really.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 22 at 2015 10:33 AM

2015-09-22T10:33:21-04:00

I disagree and think we are a large enough part of the population, but, unfortunately, veterans as a whole have not presented themselves as a significant voting block in national elections.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Sep 22 at 2015 10:36 AM

2015-09-22T10:36:10-04:00

Actually veterans have been a part of the debates in a tangential way COL Mikel J. Burroughs. While many focus on the scheduled debates, the candidates stake out positions and make public statements which other candidates refute or concur with.
There has been discussion about the Department of Veterans Affairs particularly. Health Care which is major issue for Veterans has also been part of the information debate and the formal debate.
I think most veterans would not want to be singled out as a group in the debates. Veterans are varied i terms of experiences, struggles and needs. Many of our struggles and needs are common to the general population even if our experiences are unique.

Response by LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow made Sep 22 at 2015 10:38 AM

2015-09-22T10:38:05-04:00

As I've stated before, our "So called leaders" care about getting us into wars, not dealing with what happens after the fact. None of the GOP candidates so far seem to be TRUE leaders, so they all get lumped in, imho...

Response by LCpl Mark Lefler made Sep 22 at 2015 11:05 AM

2015-09-22T11:05:47-04:00

considering the republican party voted down every vet bill in the last 2 years, why would we be a concern for them?

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Sep 22 at 2015 11:09 AM

2015-09-22T11:09:25-04:00

$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$. Until Veterans groups spend millions of Dollars in Super Pacs will we be an issue. Money talks and everything else is...

Response by LCpl Mark Lefler made Sep 22 at 2015 11:14 AM

2015-09-22T11:14:20-04:00

This, however, shows another issue with the republican contestants, they really do alienate whole demographics... veterans, gays, hispanics, alot of women. They can't keep doing this if they hope to win a national election. straight middle/upper class White males do not make up enough of the population to give them a win.

Response by LTC Bink Romanick made Sep 22 at 2015 11:14 AM

2015-09-22T11:14:24-04:00

COL Mikel J. Burroughs sadly, sir I don't believe that they care about us.

Response by LTC Kevin B. made Sep 22 at 2015 11:17 AM

2015-09-22T11:17:54-04:00

In my opinion, I think it involves a political calculation on both sides. The active and reserve military is such a small component of the overall vote (less than 1%), and it is diffused across so many voting districts. As a result, they don't get much attention as a voting bloc because they are so small and diffused (the only exception would be in the handful of districts where the military has a big footprint). Regarding the veterans, they are a larger group, so they could stand to get some attention. However, the GOP thinks they have the veteran vote, and don't need to fight for it. Meanwhile, the Democrats think they have lost the veteran vote, so they don't think it's worthwhile to fight for it. One side has taken us for granted, and another side has conceded our vote. Both sides don't see the active and veteran votes as tipping the balance, hence the absence of an emphasis on issues that impact us. When we become more "up for grabs", the politicians will pay attention to us. Politics is really simple...they follow the issues and voting blocs that can swing elections.

Response by MCPO Roger Collins made Sep 22 at 2015 11:26 AM

2015-09-22T11:26:04-04:00

Lets start with the premise of the article. There has only been Republican debates, so far. The Dems are letting the Rs run the circular firing squad, while playing populist gamesmanship. We will see what is asked or explained by them when the time comes.

Now, the reason the Republican Debates have not addressed the current VA and other Veteran related debates is it has not been brought up by the Moderators, who select the questions and drive the topics. I would bet the Republicans would have preferred this area of questioning more than the Stuff they were asked.

As I posted before, with substantiation, the largest number of voters from the military vote Conservative, so they aren't placing as much emphasis on the military at this time. The Democrats see it as a lost element of the voter electorate, and ignore it unless they are directly asked about their position. I believe the actions of the current administration with regards to the VA and the military speaks for itself.

If we actually weren't like herding cats and could form a PAC that advocates for the military, rather than the disjointed effort we see, we would have a significant voting bloc.

Response by SSG Kevin McCulley made Sep 22 at 2015 11:43 AM

2015-09-22T11:43:46-04:00

Because we aren't a large enough voting block to rate more than lip-service coupled with deeply embedded liberal prejudices towards us dating back to the Vietnam era.

Response by SSG Warren Swan made Sep 22 at 2015 11:53 AM

2015-09-22T11:53:43-04:00

"There is no dearth of problems to discuss. A staggering 22 veterans commit suicide per day in the United States, and millions more find themselves homeless and unable to find work. The same people who fought to protect the U.S. and its democratic process are returning home to find a broken support and healthcare system that often offers little in the way of comprehensive medical care for physical and emotional ailments stemming from years of combat. This seems to be an especially glaring failure given that the United States spends, by far, the most money of any other country in the world on military spending" Vietnam lessons NOT learned. Desert Storm lessons NOT learned, Afghanistan and Iraq lessons NOT learned with folks at the helm who know the other two wars intimately. Yet we fawn over politicians with the "right" words, the "right" name, the "right" political party. When are we going to fawn over the "right" person that is not only going to fight for us the way we fight for them, and rather than making a bombastic speech that says nothing, is willing to put his/her political capitol on the line to do what's right? We're not owed anything more than we put in on, and we put in some hard hours, some hard fought battles, lost some good troops, and cried so much, so we're owed a good life upon return for not only ourselves but for those who lives were cut short. Not about money. We can make that. It's about time and life, we don't have enough time, and life is too short.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 22 at 2015 12:02 PM

2015-09-22T12:02:14-04:00

They may need to wake up recent reports show that almost 8% of Americans have a current or prior military affiliation (.4% AD 7.3% prior service). This is over twice the number that are Transgender (estimated at 3%) and look at how much time and effort has been spent in that direction. I point this out because the problem is not our numbers it’s that we do not have a unified front like every other “special interest group.” If/when Veterans can get together behind a common cause we do make a difference but unfortunately unless it involves our pay or benefits most of us won’t take a stand on anything there-by making the collective inconsequential…..anyway my point…as long as we are not united as a group we will never realize our true political power.

Response by COL Ted Mc made Sep 22 at 2015 12:58 PM

2015-09-22T12:58:00-04:00

COL Mikel J. Burroughs - Mikel; Until someone comes out with an IPO for "Veterans Unlimited" (an LLP) that promises to make big profits fast out of "merchandising" veterans, veterans are not going to be a big deal as far as the political parties are concerned (well, as far as ACTUALLY doing something to improve the condition of veterans is concerned at any rate).

Do I disagree with that position?

Is a frog that has been run over by a steamroller flat?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 22 at 2015 1:39 PM

2015-09-22T13:39:15-04:00

We are "expendable" assets to our civilian masters. Veterans conversation only surfaces when there is an end to the means with large amounts of money are involved. 100% can be traced back to funds somewhere. Bases closing, government contracts to constituents from that Congressman or Senators. Back door deals, whatever... They are ALL dirty on both sides of the isle. A quick way to measure who is a true statesman and who is in politics for the money? take their incentives away (lifetime medical, lifetime full salary, contributions, donations, lobbyist etc...) and see who decides to stick around to make laws and govern our nation.

Response by Sgt Spencer Sikder made Sep 22 at 2015 2:36 PM

2015-09-22T14:36:13-04:00

It seems they haven't really addressed much in the way of policies and strategies on any topic, let alone us. I believe we are a huge voting block and that we do have some unofficial "PACs" when it comes to the Congressionally chartered veteran service organizations. Some candidates recently spoke at the VFW and American Legion national conferences for example. At this point, until the field is whittled down to a responsible few candidates, I'm not sure they are worthy of "our" time.

Conversely, we are a sensitive topic. While there is more patriotism displayed by the general public today, which seemed to had been lost after the "greatest generation" served, we are also a costly expense on the taxpayer. Candidates have to be very careful to balance their perspectives when it comes to spending the taxpayer's dollars.

Response by SPC Sheila Lewis made Sep 22 at 2015 3:47 PM

2015-09-22T15:47:19-04:00

Apparently We Vet have no issues or situations.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 22 at 2015 4:56 PM

2015-09-22T16:56:51-04:00

We are such a small part of the voting block we are often ignored

Response by SGM Steve Wettstein made Sep 23 at 2015 8:03 AM

2015-09-23T08:03:30-04:00

COL Mikel J. Burroughs Sir, IMO we are to small of a voting population and would have no real affect on the out come of an election. Therefore, they don't care about us until some bad news hits the media. Then they are all about helping us. Also, we are not a trending group. I'll let y'all figure out that one.

Response by MSG Floyd Williams made Sep 23 at 2015 10:18 AM

2015-09-23T10:18:56-04:00

I believe only a handful of Non-Veterans Politicians care about the Military and Veterans well being.

Response by Capt Mark Strobl made Sep 23 at 2015 11:24 AM

2015-09-23T11:24:47-04:00

Because the War on Terror is no longer front-page news, veterans' issues have, similarly, slipped to page-2... maybe -3. Beyond the veterans themselves, there is no issue. We'll simply drift back into the landscape --until we're needed again.

Response by PO1 Aaron Baltosser made Sep 23 at 2015 11:40 AM

2015-09-23T11:40:35-04:00

Because the lack of respect from the current administration has relegated Veterans to fourth class citizens. We have watched Congress rewrite the law to pay Active Duty less. We have seen attempts to force Tri-Care to vanish pushing Veterans into the Obamacare world despite what they have earned. We have watched the value of retirements get degraded as well as the value if serving the country. The media has played a significant role in this and they have been aided often by the administration. During WWII, or Korea serving was seen as honorable, even noble. In Viet Nam fewer thought of the service in the same light. Ask young men and women today what they think. Just be prepared for the common core, war is never the answer that comes out of their mouths.

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Sep 23 at 2015 11:49 AM

2015-09-23T11:49:38-04:00

We are an after thought and irrelevant

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 23 at 2015 11:50 AM

2015-09-23T11:50:56-04:00

Because our interests are fragmented (non unified) on issues facing veterans. Too many organizations not enough resources and in fighting are what keeps our issues from the fore front.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Sep 23 at 2015 12:21 PM

2015-09-23T12:21:44-04:00

I disagree that the candidates are not mentioning veterans...or at least the ones I have heard or better stated, I am listening too...BUT I do agree that there is a growing lack of attention to Veteran issues because the veterans are shrinking factor in elections and do not really vote as an interest block. You cannot bring a block of votes to the table, they will move to those that can. Maybe this is why Veterans were only mentioned by two candidates during the broadcast of the last debate? Former Hewlett-Packard CEO Carly Fiorina several times mentioned health care delay problems at the Department of Veterans Affairs, and business mogul Donald Trump offered a broad promise to improve care for vets.
As I consider it now, only the political outsiders are seeming to care about our Veterans...maybe it is time we show the political class why that is a mistake?
Fiorina in 2016!

Response by SGT Christopher Churilla made Sep 23 at 2015 12:34 PM

2015-09-23T12:34:48-04:00

Republicans have traditionally been pro-military, but with this bunch I'm beginning to wonder if they are actually pro-war.

I also wonder if their lack of any significant plan to take care of veterans is that we are such a small percentage of the population that they do not consider us an important demographic.

Response by SGT Jeremiah B. made Sep 23 at 2015 12:51 PM

2015-09-23T12:51:11-04:00

I think there are a bunch of issues at play.

There just aren't that many of us, so our issues aren't that important on a national level. The average American cares more about things like the economy and budget. We could swing a couple of major states though, so I think most of the veterans issues talk will probably show up in campaign speeches in states like Florida, which has 1.5m veterans.

I also think there's an assumption that we're all Republicans or at the very least will vote Republican reflexively. That would be wrong, but even vets seem to have a hard time understanding we're an ideologically diverse group, so a civilian making that assumption is easy to understand.

Also, veterans issues are...dangerous. Just look at Trump and Carson. What they have said made waves in the media and the military community. The cost-benefit is skewed negatively; say something great and get maybe a little boost...say something wrong and hooboy! You're going to pay. Best bet is to just nod helpfully in that direction without saying anything of substance.

Finally, I think Jon Stewart covered it best in the video I'm posting. Everyone loves to screw vets...

World of WarriorShaft - Terrible Memory Lane

The American government has found ways to abuse its veterans in every era.

Response by SSG Ricardo Marcial made Sep 23 at 2015 1:04 PM

2015-09-23T13:04:30-04:00

Because the only thing said about veterans was the 5 sec blurp by Trump on how CNN should donate the proceeds from the debate to veteran causes "because it's the right thing to do" and then the media went on to cover the Kardasians or some other more media worthy event.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Sep 23 at 2015 2:18 PM

2015-09-23T14:18:42-04:00

We are just one of many special interest groups. Not everyone can be in the spotlight all the time...

Response by Sgt Kelli Mays made Sep 23 at 2015 3:18 PM

2015-09-23T15:18:58-04:00

This is a very good question.

Response by SSG Keith Cashion made Sep 23 at 2015 3:18 PM

2015-09-23T15:18:59-04:00

Personally, there is nothing for them to talk about...I mean come on, VA waiting list, Vets being homeless, the number of Current and Former Military committing suicide, the number of Vets that cannot find employment, and lest we forget the current and former military members suffering from PTSD that cannot get even basic care. There are no topics during this race for the White House. They have already lifted Don't Ask, Don't Tell, Legalized gay marriage and every other stupid campaign promise made last time. So this campaign season is all about the Personality Contest, or Beauty Contest...I mean it seems that this bunch from both side act like they are trying to win the Miss Congeniality portion of the contest or race? Hard to tell these days. The announcement should have been, the nominee for the for the Secretary of the Army is............ But of course the fun word has to be thrown in there. I wonder, if and when he is confirmed and takes office, and the chain of command photos go up, will it include the fun word as well in his title? hhhmmmm...half nickel for the day.

Response by CW3 Bernard"Chief" Collier made Sep 24 at 2015 8:45 AM

2015-09-24T08:45:27-04:00

Quick to send to war. But don't care what happens to us after. As long as the defense contracts are intact they OK. Whether you are intact or not, up for debate. Then again maybe not. That's why we here talking about it. Oh well

Response by CPT Jason Torpy made Sep 24 at 2015 3:37 PM

2015-09-24T15:37:25-04:00

because republicans essentially own veterans. with the VFW and the Legion being owned by conservative christian political interests, there's no discussion to have. until the VFW and Legion drop their conservative political agenda, veterans will be pandered to as they have been before, but there won't be a real discussion.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 24 at 2015 4:25 PM

2015-09-24T16:25:11-04:00

because they are too busy bickering about themselves and TRUMP.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 24 at 2015 5:14 PM

2015-09-24T17:14:04-04:00

To be honest, I don't find it the least bit surprising. Unfortunate, certainly, but not surprising. If you take a look at their campaign pages, most of these candidates do not list any veterans issues (some don't list any issues at all). Out of all the candidates, Bush, Cruz, Rubio, Rand Paul, and former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee are the only ones that address veterans platforms on their campaign pages (to be fair, some don't address any issues on their campaign pages at all). As stated by others, we make up a very small percentage of the American population, and I would wager that a large portion of veterans already have their votes cast before these debates even begin.

My opinion, however, is that while the economy, women's rights, and the current Iran issues are heavily keyed in on by today's public, the need to take care of our veterans has become more and more important over the past few years, so a candidate who shows interest in the defenders of our nation would likely win the respect of many more civilians than he would by resorting to the personal attacks and aggressive tactics we've been seeing so often lately.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 24 at 2015 6:01 PM

2015-09-24T18:01:49-04:00

My guess is that they are all in agreement and there is no way to determine through debate which ones will actually make a difference and which ones are just giving lip service to the problem. Politicians work for the people that get them elected, if those people are corporations... then veterans are most likely going to get screwed.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 24 at 2015 9:59 PM

2015-09-24T21:59:41-04:00

BLUF: This issue is not the one that will get front runners elected. Sad but true.

Response by Maj Kim Patterson made Sep 25 at 2015 3:15 AM

2015-09-25T03:15:14-04:00

I think that veterans are not a primary issue AT THIS POINT in the campaigns and debates because many of the candidates have not passed the test of kindergarten behavior, exchanging snide personal remarks, bullying and not following basic protocol of waiting for a turn to speak after the conclusion of someone else's' time block, nor following the directions of the moderator and staying on topic.

It is early and the world is volatile. Our equipment is aging and our military leaders seem to be given a lot more responsibility at a younger age. We cannot back down and become isolationist. But our equipment is aging and can no longer be held together with spit and a promise or a piece of gum. Parts need replacing on aircraft, ships, tanks, weapons. Our troops need something to work with in the field of the non traditional war our military was not built for; we planned for war in two fronts, tops. We are cannabilizing in the field just to keep going.

The tactics of war are changing and we need equipment to keep up with that, also. But by not spending money on military, we are affecting many manufacturing jobs, with frequent layoffs, which, no surprise, affects the economy in so many unexpected ways, especially in the middle class, and I think this might force some discussions in later debates concerning jobs.

There are a lot of hot spots so we must be prepared. I am of the camp that by building a strong military force, we can get to an uneasy peace (Cold War II, if you must.) I don't think we need to get into every fist fight everywhere but there are many countries strengthening their militaries while we continue to cut and tie the hands of the leaders at the fronts. We need to be prepared and to be prepared, we must bring it into open discussion instead of a random remark and create a reasonable working plan before it is too late. History DOES repeat itself

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 25 at 2015 8:24 AM

2015-09-25T08:24:16-04:00

I have been in the military for 21 years, and have found that a lot of problems facing Soldiers is self-inflicted. They spend outside of their means and complain about everything. I am surprised that there isn't any backlash from the military's senior leadership regarding the statements from politician that we are ill-equipped and ill-prepared to defend our nations. The only complaints that I receive from people nd their dealing with VA is "they only got 70% not 100% disability. So, I am frightened at the possibility of VA healthcare to the private sector where profit motives and dividends will determine your level of care. The 70% you receive will be 25% percent if the VA is transitioned to the private sector.

Response by Maj Mike Sciales made Sep 25 at 2015 12:01 PM

2015-09-25T12:01:46-04:00

Vets won't be a debate issue because we've always been quiet and believed our government would take care of us if we were injured. We now understand that isn't the case. We must make ourselves not only be heard, we must command their attention through to action. This is because we (Rally Point) have not organized ourselves into a social media force to be reckoned with. We have a substantial number of followers on RP with an intense interest in all matters concerning veterans and the V.A. Many our members are excellent administrators, skilled technicians, policy analysts, slide show makers and more, all highly motivated, people and service oriented -- not careerists administrators who popped up over time as is the case in the V.A. (NOT FAULTING THE MEDICAL STAFF -- THEY ARE HEROES.) We need to look at aligning with Congressional Leaders who hear us and know us. Ill Congresswoman Tammy Duckworth - Combat vet, multiple amputee, mother and wife. She knows for certain. AZ Congresswoman Kyrsten Sinema is taking on the VAin Arizona and kicking their ass! She is moving legislation to make it easier to fire incompetents and provide better care for vets. We have some of the smartest, most tech savvy members in the universe. We have CyberCommand vets (our new overlords) so now all those smart and highly motivated folks (I am a retired big idea guy) need to jump up and talk about it as administrators and figure out how to tie it all in. If we can routinely generate 150,000 signatures to a question the White House must reply to it. We can survey our own members and get instant opinion polls to the Congressional leaders who really want to know what we need and what we think. We can do this. We can ask Duckworth and Sinema to send us their questions. They can direct vets to Rally Point. I think we can create a large voice pretty rapidly. I know we have COMM guys from all branches -- and you know what they say "If you don't have comms you're just camping." Well for us, without comms we'll just be new age geezers gassing in front of the BX snack bar talking about the glory days.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Sep 25 at 2015 12:11 PM

2015-09-25T12:11:53-04:00

Numbers. Not a lot of Veterans, not a lot of family members of veterans. Nothing to disagree on, everyone agrees 'something should be done' but not at the cost of things that directly affect them. Everyone has a grandmother (social security, medicare) not everyone has a veteran.

Response by SPC Sheila Lewis made Sep 25 at 2015 1:35 PM

2015-09-25T13:35:36-04:00

apparently Veterans have no issues....

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 25 at 2015 3:12 PM

2015-09-25T15:12:51-04:00

We are just 1%, and also those are still under UCMJ ... can't said much anyway.

Response by SGT Scott Henderson made Sep 25 at 2015 10:30 PM

2015-09-25T22:30:48-04:00

Helping veterans will be a talking point as election day gets closer but for right now it's more or less a free for all

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 25 at 2015 11:37 PM

2015-09-25T23:37:58-04:00

Bear in mind, I am *very* cynical about this:

But basically, politicians want people to go to war and come home as either hale & hearty heroes, or as boxed, dead "heroes" so they can shed some crocodile tears about "noble sacrifices" before moving on. They don't want to see the ones that are torn up, crying, limbless, or will spend the rest of their years needing help. The VA (whether it works or not) is a reminder to the people that the tough talk of the politicians comes at a steep cost, and the politicians want that unfortunate, bothersome reminder to be swept under a convenient rug somewhere.

Response by A1C Charles D Wilson made Sep 25 at 2015 11:43 PM

2015-09-25T23:43:50-04:00

Blahhh to me.. " The government seems to see us Expendable and we do not matter!!" That's the way I feel about it. We signed a blank check with our lives for our country and yet we get overlooked all the time. I have all but given up on trying to get help and knowing good and well it does not matter. After service 1984-1987 I worked until June 2014 and had to give up work due to health reasons. Now I am having to fight with my lawyer just to get my SSI started. Really...really? When I started work at 17yrs of age and joined the USAF Res (Then USAF) they took my SSI from my check and I have to fight to get it now? Even with 2 doctors taking me out of work?!?! 1 doctor was a specialist and the other a regular doctor.
We have more than you think on the population count for veterans. Out of my family I can tell you of 6 from my father to brother to step father to step mother to my cousins etc. So there are a lot of veterans out there and like me ..'Why even try!" Yes I would do it again and my blank check still stands.

Chuck D

Response by GySgt Moses Lozano made Sep 26 at 2015 12:40 AM

2015-09-26T00:40:31-04:00

Because the majority of those running never served to include their kids!

Response by Cpl Christopher Bishop made Sep 27 at 2015 12:49 AM

2015-09-27T00:49:39-04:00

Trump has made some efforts to include Veterans. But during the downsizing its not likely the main focus to win an election.

Response by 1SG Bruce Liscombe made Sep 29 at 2015 12:03 PM

2015-09-29T12:03:59-04:00

We are not a big enough sluce of the population for it to matter to either side. With the minority of Veterans in Congress now days they don't really think our vote will affect them

Response by CPT James Hubbard made Sep 29 at 2015 4:16 PM

2015-09-29T16:16:13-04:00

Those candidates will all agree that our nation must take proper care of veterans who need help. But put any one of those candidates in front of a group of veterans and watch them perform. Veterans will be their top priority all of a sudden. I watched Bill Clinton suck up to an American Legion audience of about 8,000 veterans in 1992. Here is his quote: "I will not appoint a Secretary of Veterans Affairs, I will appoint a Secretary FOR Veterans Affairs." The crowd was on its feet even though the statement meant nothing. It's all theater.

Response by CAPT Hiram Patterson made Sep 29 at 2015 5:04 PM

2015-09-29T17:04:02-04:00

The media so far have not addressed those issues in the Republican debates. Probably on purpose as they're centered on social issues in their gotcha mode. The Republicans are still being weeded out at this point.

Response by SSG Alex Toulomelis made Sep 29 at 2015 5:19 PM

2015-09-29T17:19:40-04:00

To the American people in general there are more important issues. We veterans are a disposable commodity in this nation, we are loved when needed and easily dismissed when not. It is a sad truth that comes along with this profession. Many of us can remember the time before 9-11 when there was not this outpouring of support, there were no massive amounts of discounts offered to military, there was no one in 1st Class giving up their seats for us. After 9-11 the nation knew they needed us and they were so thankful that we had volunteered so they or their children would not have to go to war. So now that the wars are "over" the public can turn their 5 minute attention span to other issues like rebel flags and transgender Olympians. We have a president that says climate change is a greater threat to the nation than terrorism. It is sad that we all volunteered to fight and die for the people of this nation and now that we are done we do not fight for ourselves or have a loud enough voice in our government.
The last time that Americans truly cared about her veterans was in WWII, and that is because the nation as a whole felt the affects of the war. Everyone contributed. You can see this in how the nation remembers the generations.

Response by SPC Rich Stiltner made Sep 29 at 2015 5:22 PM

2015-09-29T17:22:24-04:00

Good question!

Response by SSgt Liam Babington made Sep 29 at 2015 5:51 PM

2015-09-29T17:51:50-04:00

It only matters when there is a war....then we count as an issue. Sad but true! WE...must make our lives relevant to us...for ourselves!!

Response by SGT Tim Grow made Sep 29 at 2015 6:08 PM

2015-09-29T18:08:34-04:00

There is a party that puts veterans at the top of the list the Veterans Party of America. To bad we can't get enough media coverage on Chris Keniston and Deacon Taylor

Response by PO1 Michael Lee made Sep 29 at 2015 7:52 PM

2015-09-29T19:52:54-04:00

Because we as veterans must take a stand , and march on Washington to show them there is strength in numbers. Then we will not be over looked and receive the treatment and respect we have worked so hard for.

Response by HN Rick Strul made Sep 29 at 2015 8:50 PM

2015-09-29T20:50:19-04:00

Several republican candidates mentioned the importance of Veterans and their proper treatment during their own time. Unfortunately, the media doesn't seem to care much about the issue and hasn't asked questions about it. With so many candidates on the stage, time is at a premium for each because they get relatively few questions addressed to them. I doubt that the issue will ever come up in the demogogic party candidates' debate - too embarrassing and they won't want to remind people of the disgrace of the past seven years.

Response by SSG Michael Hartsfield made Sep 29 at 2015 9:20 PM

2015-09-29T21:20:52-04:00

To build on what everyone else may have said, no one cares about the service member once the uniform us mothballed. Also, and this came from a counselor during a SLC briefing, now that we are veterans, we "are just numbers on a spreadsheet."

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2015 9:29 PM

2015-09-29T21:29:33-04:00

Veterans have not been an issue in many political debates because of the obvious fact that most politicians only thrive doing photo-op but are disingenuously inclined to the issues that matter to any average Veteran. What then is the recipe? Veterans and transitioning military service members must aspire to occupying political offices so that clueless individuals will not be tasked with dishing out 'aveteran-centric' programs.

Response by SN Gs Crable Sr. made Sep 30 at 2015 12:21 AM

2015-09-30T00:21:17-04:00

I just couldn't resist this... it's because no one cares. Homelessness has stigmas attached, Republicans don't believe in helping the socially needy, especially unemployed males between the ages of 18 -60, no matter what the excuse, and homeless people don't have PR campaigns because they don't make good add copy- not photogenic at all. Sorry for being cynical, but I fund-raise all year long for a 501 c3, state-registered, IRS-recognized, Vietnam-vet Era run, true charity organization, and 99.9 % of my responses to my invitation to help our former heroes who are now homeless veterans with a simple tax-deductible donation of any amount, are always NO. Dogs, cats, whales, sick kids, foreign disaster relief, cancer research, abused gold-fish, or whatever. Yeah we support anybody in America. Accept Vets at risk or in need. BTW: I only call businesses, and this charity is in the front lines every day, all year, and at Stand down as as well, and with 25 years of sales and marketing experience, I am completely bewildered. I collected thousands of dollars for years, for The Shriners, Law Enforcement, etc, etc, but NEVER have I been so completely and almost totally shut done.. its probably time to pas the buck like everybody else and go apply for my well-earned social security. I was practically saved by VIETNAM VETERANS of SAN DIEGO's programs for homeless,addicted, mentally ill, and diagnosed PTSD. (It's called triple-threat, and many will never have that chance. I went from homeless indigent to now twenty years sober from Alcohol... thanks to having resources... That's why I fund-raise for vets.
See my profile for info crowdfunding for vets in need, if you want to help- or write a check to the charity. I'd be grateful, and its seems its' all vets helping vets anyway. sorry to digress, but that is my story.
PS: A hand UP is NOT a hand out. (I'm living proof.)

Response by SrA Joann Bragg made Sep 30 at 2015 12:29 AM

2015-09-30T00:29:50-04:00

It's simple, the majority don't care. The VA system is broken and needs a complete overhaul. The civilian providers that the VA sends us to for our initial evaluations don't care. They are simply in it for the money. If you do have some type of mental health issue, the civilian doctors automatic may assume it's PTSD or some form of anxiety. If you try to explain for example: OPSEC, where if you see someone out of place for long durations, they really start to think you're paranoid. The over all answer to everything comes town to numbers and the candidates not giving a damn along with much of the population.

Response by Maj William Gambrell made Sep 30 at 2015 12:41 AM

2015-09-30T00:41:40-04:00

The simple answer to the question is that all the republican candidates agree on the same topic. Why would you want to argue in a debate with everyone that agrees with you? They are arguing with their differences to persuade conservative voters. You will see the Veteran topic come up during the presidential election and the republicans will push it at that time... which is the right time.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 30 at 2015 1:18 AM

2015-09-30T01:18:04-04:00

Honestly, iI think it's because the republicans are traditionally the ones to bring the topic to the table but they've done a shit job for vets lately and don't want people to start bringing it up.

Response by CMSgt Kevin Stickley made Sep 30 at 2015 7:18 AM

2015-09-30T07:18:49-04:00

Are any of the candidates even veterans? Politicians only care about veterans when they are embarrassed into it. You have to look for a candidate who is not on the military industry's payroll and will keep us out of unnecessary wars. Right now, there's only one, and he's not a conservative.

Response by SCPO Carl Wayne Boss made Sep 30 at 2015 7:36 AM

2015-09-30T07:36:19-04:00

Col; I believe that (1) Veterans Health and all other Veterans issues from the way we are paid, to the way(s) we are used, (2) Illegal Immigration & Control of our Borders, (3) Tax Reform... should be the top three Issues that ALL the Candidates should be addressing!

Response by CWO3 Warren Gaudreau made Sep 30 at 2015 8:09 AM

2015-09-30T08:09:55-04:00

I became fully aware just after I retired that we are EXPENDABLE. The more distractions, such as electronics and just plain affluence out society has, the more they care only for their own comfort. Having the rug pulled out from under us should come as no surprise.

Response by Sgt Ronnie Mack made Sep 30 at 2015 9:07 AM

2015-09-30T09:07:38-04:00

Simple, everyone (especially the politicians) love the freedom we provide, yet. They act as if we are suppose to. Understand this. Every man and woman that served this country had a choice. And decided to out others (this great country of ours) before their own needs! So to answer ur question. Politicians don't care as long as they are safe and hapoy from danger!

Response by 1SG Larry Cole, EMBA/MBA/MS made Sep 30 at 2015 12:06 PM

2015-09-30T12:06:19-04:00

Veterans should always be a concern in every elections. This country was built and kept safe by the service members who are now veterans.

Response by SGT Ronald Audas made Sep 30 at 2015 1:28 PM

2015-09-30T13:28:32-04:00

I believe we are a significant percentage of the population.It has been estimated that upwards of 300,000 vets have died because of lack of care from the VA.No bashing or racial issue intended,but our numbers are larger that the LGBT,immigrants crossing the border,and many other fringe groups that dominate the debates.The only candidate ( suspended campaign ) that I have heard address the veterans issues was Rick Perry.( a veteran).The questions are so presented to the candidates,to not allow them to broach many other subjects.I believe that veterans are not bitchers,so our voice is small.We have been taught to make do with what we have and move on.

Response by AB Raymond Guinn made Sep 30 at 2015 4:53 PM

2015-09-30T16:53:29-04:00

From my personal experiences with the public, no one wants to remember the vets. For instance, when we have a Veterans Day or Memorial Day Parade here in Yakima, WA, there are hardly anyone present to acknowledge the Vets. But the turnout for parades like at Christmas or the fair, the streets are packed. It seems that no one cares except for their own agendas.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 1 at 2015 11:14 AM

2015-10-01T11:14:29-04:00

Voting bloc is too small. Plus, let's be honest...the military is largely conservative. Republicans assume that most of us will vote republican, no matter what they or their opponents say.

Response by PO3 Sherry Thornburg made Oct 1 at 2015 12:54 PM

2015-10-01T12:54:37-04:00

Vets aren't on the talking points table because we are such a small part of the population. Back during and after WW2, Everybody was in the service or had family that was, so vets got more attention.

Be really grateful for your grandfathers and great grands. Because of them, we have what services there are.

Response by LCDR Gordon Brown made Oct 2 at 2015 5:42 PM

2015-10-02T17:42:18-04:00

“The willingness with which our young people are likely to serve in any war, no matter how justified, shall be directly proportional to how they perceive the veterans of earlier wars were treated and appreciated by their nation.”

– 1789 General George Washington, our first Commander-in-Chief

Response by SGT Michael Glenn made Oct 2 at 2015 6:59 PM

2015-10-02T18:59:16-04:00

Veterans are not important!!! Cmon , what have vets done for this country??? now let me hurry and duck before the combats boots start flying!!!!

Response by SSG Broderick Sample made Oct 2 at 2015 7:32 PM

2015-10-02T19:32:35-04:00

How many combat vets are there in office? The fewer vets in office the less attention veteran issues are going to get.

Response by Sgt Ken Prescott made Oct 2 at 2015 11:18 PM

2015-10-02T23:18:10-04:00

We're not a big enough bloc any more. The WW2 generation is almost gone, and we haven't had a really big chunk of the populace under arms since 1945.

Response by SGT Dana Williams made Oct 3 at 2015 8:08 PM

2015-10-03T20:08:47-04:00

I could quote Kipling "in times of war and not before, God and soldiers men adore. But in times of peace and all things righted, God is forgotten ... and the soldier slighted". The man was a prophet!

Response by CPL Jason Simpson made Nov 8 at 2015 9:12 AM

2015-11-08T09:12:44-05:00

Because they have never served and I think anyone wanting to go into government should have to serve a four year enlistment minimum and do that Honorably. If that were the case the stage would be Empty!!! Repub. and Dem. none of these chicken hawks have served anything but themselves.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Nov 9 at 2015 4:08 PM

2015-11-09T16:08:30-05:00

I believe the VA is similar to the Military problem. The solution or COAs are so hidden, they can't be found.

Response by MAJ David Vermillion made Feb 8 at 2016 10:45 AM

2016-02-08T10:45:52-05:00

We were once public servants, serving our country and doing what we're told without question. Now that we are out, they look at us as a problem that requires a lot of attention. The VA is so large and out of control. I say do away with the VA and use civilian doctors and facilities. Too many people working for the VA that have a job and don't really care about veterans and their needs. They have life time jobs and if you are not taken care of, well you just aren't care of and the problem is passed on to some other department. It's a complex runaway machine.

Response by CW3 Jim Norris made Feb 8 at 2016 11:37 AM

2016-02-08T11:37:52-05:00

We represent a very small percentage of the overall population. With absolutely catastrophic debt hanging over the nation, the huge influx of God knows who along our southern border, the lawlessness of our chief executive and the criminal activity of the primary Democratic candidate - I would much rather hear candidates ta;k about making the country solvent again, securing our borders, enforcing the law of the land and getting rid of activist federal judges who are legislating from the bench. God forbid that we elect either Hillary or Bernie. Cruz or Trump would be better, but we have to get some semblance of a Constitutional Republic back in order for the nation to have a snow balls chance in hell of surviving as currently constituted.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2016 5:28 PM

2016-02-08T17:28:27-05:00

Because we're such a small percentage. Also, the moment Veterans are mentioned they all take turns flapping their gums falling over themselves talking about how much they "support the troops" while their voting records may say otherwise...skipping the patronizing chatter is nearly preferred.

Response by SPC James Harsh made Feb 8 at 2016 6:43 PM

2016-02-08T18:43:14-05:00

Because the gov implies that returning veterans are potential domestic terrorists

Response by SSG Leo Bell made Feb 9 at 2016 7:45 AM

2016-02-09T07:45:53-05:00

No one wants to open that can of worms because they all know how bad things are for veterans these days. That's why there not saying anything about social security also.
They know if they start talking about veterans issues and make allot of promises a d they get the veterans to vote for them. Then get in office and not hold half of the promises that they made it will not look good. They will be talked about in the news and everywhere else. The one group of people they don't want against them are the veterans.

Response by Cpl Rene Hernandez made Feb 9 at 2016 11:00 AM

2016-02-09T11:00:41-05:00

We'd like to know that

Response by SGT Philip Roncari made Feb 10 at 2016 10:44 PM

2016-02-10T22:44:02-05:00

I think a perfect answer to this question is to read Rudyard Kipling poem "Tommy"

Response by 1LT Aaron Barr made Feb 11 at 2016 3:36 PM

2016-02-11T15:36:47-05:00

Because there aren't enough veterans for us to be an important voting bloc and most peoples support of veterans is little more than lip service.

Response by SSG Mike Busovicki made Feb 13 at 2016 9:46 AM

2016-02-13T09:46:54-05:00

For one thing, I don't think the average American realizes we're still at war. If they don't notice the things that are going on in the present, how can we make them care about the life-long issues we have to handle? Plus, most politicians never served themselves. And veterans' benefits are a "financial burden" we're supposedly sucking from the government teat, and everyone seems to "want government out of our lives" anyway. Does anyone else see this as ironic?

Response by LCpl Cody Collins made Feb 13 at 2016 7:17 PM

2016-02-13T19:17:47-05:00

The reason vet's are not mentioned, is because of the M- Word ( Muslim ). Then that will open up a can of worms for the Democrats ! They will have to defend the whole Syrian refugee / IsIs infiltration fiasco. Donald Trump would have a field day with the Democrats and every sellout Republican.

Response by COL David Turk made Feb 14 at 2016 10:42 AM

2016-02-14T10:42:18-05:00

Veterans are typically not the "squeaky" wheel. A great example are WWII vets who came home and kept everything inside.
Well, things haven't changed much over the years. We (vets) are taught to serve, and count on others up the chain to watch our back. This is lost on politicians who are not vets, who don't understand this implied role of senior political leadership, regardless of political party.

That's why organizations have evolved over the years to speak up for us; e.g., DAV, VFW, AL, etc.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2016 2:02 AM

2016-02-15T02:02:52-05:00

Because there are no veterans on both sides running for the highest office in the land. Donald Trump even compared his high school JROTC to military service. Disrespectful. This group is the worst in current history.

Response by SGT Robert R. made Feb 16 at 2016 6:24 AM

2016-02-16T06:24:20-05:00

I am normally the positive guy, but in this case I feel a dose of realism coming on.
Vets are not part of a debate because both parties see us the same, we are a pawn to be used at the local level to gain a potential vote. However, the bureaucratic reality is that they won't do anything to fix the issues because it's too big to take on by one politician.

They will continue to pander to us locally, but you won't see our issues debated on the national stage during primetime.

#ArmyStrong

Response by PO1 John Ros made Feb 16 at 2016 4:02 PM

2016-02-16T16:02:19-05:00

I am very troubled by this, especially as the lack of addressing the large number of our brothers and sisters taking their own lives daily.

Response by Sgt Truman Cunnish made Feb 17 at 2016 5:24 AM

2016-02-17T05:24:06-05:00

I do believe that once a person gains the veterans status they are no longer a part of the solution but a part of the problem. At least in the eyes of the modern day US GOVT. bean counters. In the eyes of the worlds elite paying out money to the non productive is a no no.
They say the worlds population is roughly six billion people and they mean to reduce that number to one billion. It's already in the making with Obama implementing his new laws and regulation so he can bring in UN forces to help American forces beat and kill (yes US forces) American citizens and put us in FEMA camps. Just like Hitler, there will be separation of family and killing OF the "WORTHLESS FEEDERS" as the enlighten ones say. once Obama declares Marshall Law he will become the undisputed authority

Response by Sgt Truman Cunnish made Feb 17 at 2016 5:34 AM

2016-02-17T05:34:47-05:00

Bottom line. It's a mind over matter thing. They don't mind and we don't matter.

Response by PFC Don Palumbo made Feb 17 at 2016 9:48 AM

2016-02-17T09:48:50-05:00

Most of you guys are right about the politicians are not talking about us veterans so much. But, Donald Trump talks about us all the time. He promises he will make sure we are taken care of. He has always been big on veteran issues and recently collected over 6 million dollars for the wounded warriors. This is only one of many reasons he will get my vote. He is not one of them, He is one of us, at heart.

Response by MCPO Roger Collins made Feb 17 at 2016 10:36 AM

2016-02-17T10:36:56-05:00

Have any of you looked at the 2016/2017 VA budget submissions? I will take action over words any time. What needs to be addressed is the lack of accountability within the VA System. Financially and on a personnel basis. Corruption is rampant as the VAOIG indicates regularly in its reports and mismanagement happens more than we want to realize. What is it that you want debated, as far as the VA?

http://www.va.gov/budget/docs/summary/fy2017-VAsBudgetPressRelease.pdf

Response by PFC Don Palumbo made Feb 17 at 2016 11:21 AM

2016-02-17T11:21:04-05:00

SSG Ricardo Marcial has it pegged. Good for him.

Response by SGT Michael Thorin made Mar 21 at 2016 3:49 PM

2016-03-21T15:49:41-04:00

Politics, pure and simple.

The number of US citizens as of the US Census Bureaus population clock, we are at about 325,000,000 citizens.

There are 218,959,000 citizens eligible to vote, and there are approximately 23,229,995 Veteran's and active duty military to this day.

To put it into perspective, the Veteran and Military personnel represent only 10% of the voters, so in their minds, they have to put their efforts in convincing their parties to choose them.

For this reason, they only briefly mention the Veterans vote, because in their minds, that will not be what gets them in a POTUS candidacy.

I believe we will see more talk focused on the Veterans when a representative is chosen for each party, and those debates begin.

However, I do not think it will be the hot topic for any of them because of the demographics of the military population. I haven't heard of many Veteran Support groups who actually lobby in Congress, or even just a group of Veteran's who gather to peacefully raise awareness for our military, both Veteran's and those still serving.

We are 10% of the population, and will be for some time, unless we join together and "recruit" others in our cause, which would be to project our Veterans as a legitimate force in which the candidates have to take notice.

Regardless of how you feel about the Black Lives Matter movements, you have to admit that it is effective, and many people are beginning to join.

If we are generous with the numbers members they have, We will estimate there are 1,000,000 and growing.

That puts the percentage of eligible voters who represent the BLM movement is only 0.4%.

0.4% of the voting population is shutting down rallies and influencing hundreds of voters daily.

Our 10% will never have that influence if we do not start calling our Congressmen and become involved on a local, regional, and then national level.

No protests, no violence. Just Veteran's starting a movement which will make us visible in the public's eyes.

However, except for the statistics, everything else is just an opinion.

Response by PFC Don Palumbo made Mar 22 at 2016 9:47 AM

2016-03-22T09:47:22-04:00

As I've said before, I believe our best chance is with Donald Trump. He is the only one that has acted on our behalf. Others have not even tried to do what he has done. While we get some lip service from those that weakly try to follow some of Trumps actions, I see no real movement from any of them. He needs us, but more importantly, We need him.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 27 at 2016 9:58 AM

2016-03-27T09:58:04-04:00

COL Mikel J. Burroughs My brain is not wide open yet, but simply put, they (Congress) are using 'Pork Barrel Monies' for anything but military. That and going to illegal aliens.

Response by SPC David Willis made Mar 27 at 2016 9:19 PM

2016-03-27T21:19:05-04:00

It's because politicians really don't care about us. They'll shake hands and smile as we're fighting their wars, but once we are done they forget we exist.

Response by HN Rick Strul made Mar 28 at 2016 8:35 AM

2016-03-28T08:35:24-04:00

Some of the Republican candidates address the issue regularly. The debate moderators generally don't bring the issue up.

You can completely forget about any help from the Demagogue party candidates. They don't believe in the military, see veterans as threats to the order that they want to establish, and dominate the existing bureaucracy which promotes the skimming of resources away from the people who need and deserve them to fatten the privileged bureaucratic class. So far as I am concerned, they are conducting a direct assault on US! We need to stand up and end it.

I don't care for most of the Republicans (at least there are a few that represent our interests and wish to serve the Constitution and the People), but, so far as I can see, all of the Demagogues are traitors to the Constitution and the People. Let's start by voting all of them out of office. Then, we can concentrate on the Republicans and, if necessary, put together a new 'party' that will have the interests of the Constitution and the People at heart!

Rather than being allowed to serve themselves at our expense, the political and bureaucratic class must be made to serve US! The federal government must be shrunk down to strictly Enumerated Constitutional Powers.

Response by LTC Jesse Edwards made Oct 17 at 2016 1:41 PM

2016-10-17T13:41:48-04:00

Because veterans tend to be irredeemable deplorables.

Response by Cpl George Crab made Oct 19 at 2016 6:52 PM

2016-10-19T18:52:17-04:00

Our's is not to question why, our's is but to do or die.

Response by SGT Ron Murphy made Oct 20 at 2016 1:54 AM

2016-10-20T01:54:22-04:00

This situation is so similar to a lot of Government issues.
It takes something major to get their attention. Other than election time its business as usual until there is a scandal. Like the phony wait lists, Vets dying waiting for treatment. This get the peoples attention, then it gets the Politicians attention. But there is rarely any follow up.
It would be different if it were 1970 or so when almost every adult male had served, but now it's only about 2%, so after the "guilt" of the majority is made to feel good, by a few speeches and a bill that might be introduced (but not passed), we are back to square one.
It's too bad that military service is not mandatory for elected leadership, then they would have a better understanding and be more inclined to do some good.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 20 at 2016 3:48 AM

2016-10-20T03:48:50-04:00

I would argue that Veterans are an important topic, so much so that they have their own debate to discuss Veterans issues specifically. Veterans are certainly not a center point of an election, which could be attributed to many different things.

1. Veterans are a large community but not large enough for a center point issue.
2. The issue just isn't relatable enough to the general American population.
3. Sadly, people grow tired of hearing about Veteran issues and would rather just pretend they don't exist.

There are obviously many different reasons for why these issues aren't discussed more often but these are the reasons I see most often.

Response by Sgt William Straub Jr. made Oct 20 at 2016 9:39 AM

2016-10-20T09:39:08-04:00

In my honest opinion, the only voice I've heard in helping veterans is coming from Trump. We all know what Clinton thinks of us. Are they speaking enough, know, there is more talk about refugees, illegal immigration, healthcare for both. I'm sorry, I won't spend on minute thinking about either of those groups in a beneficial way. I'm all for the veteran and active duty members.

Response by HN Rick Strul made Oct 21 at 2016 1:26 AM

2016-10-21T01:26:08-04:00

You obviously have not watched the debates. Trump has made an issue of Vets and care for Vets at every debate and event.

As for the mainstream communist/statist/progressive media and the Demagogue Party - their opinion is that the only good vet is a dead vet - they despise the military and those of us who have served, and consider us a threat to their effort to take over the country and destroy the Constitution. EVERY politician and/or operative of the Demagogue Party must be defeated and permanently removed from office, their appointees and acolytes in the federal bureaucracy must be rooted out and removed, the federal bureaucracy must be cut down to the bare bones needed to fulfill the enumerated powers and limited scope granted to it by the Constitution, only Congress must make all laws so every regulation and rule promulgated by the federal bureaucracy (executive branch) must be eliminated as unConstitutional, and the anti-American Demagogue Party and so-called Progressives must be banned as the subversive traitors they are.

Based upon the evidence at hand (and there is quite a lot of it), Obama and the Clinton's are TRAITORS to the US Constitution, the nation and the People. They must be prosecuted for their crimes.

Response by SPC Jill Drushal, RN, MA made Oct 21 at 2016 1:58 PM

2016-10-21T13:58:01-04:00

Veterans aren't an issue because NO issues have really been addressed in the debates between the GOP and Democrats. I only watched about ten minutes of the last debate because it appeared to be an act in a political circus. The moderators were not asking the right questions, so Trump and Hillary just engaged in a lot of mud slinging and name-calling. Neither has put forth any kind of substantive platform. Trump says he will "make America great again," but he doesn't address how he intends to do that except to limit immigration by "building a wall" between the US and Mexico. Hillary just attacks Trump's political qualifications or more accurately, his lack of any.

Because of Trump's history with "The Apprentice," he appears to be running on his celebrity, trusting that Americans will vote for him because of his success in Reality TV. This is a sad statement about what the political establishment thinks of Millennials. It makes me wonder how first- and second-time voters will decide their votes when they are bombarded with nitpicky ads that contain no real substance.

The top issues seem to be race relations; immigration; healthcare, specifically the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare); and education, Common Core v. Back to Basics curricula. Veterans' issues are somewhere in the top ten, but even with a huge lobby in DC, they are being overshadowed by other things. The candidates who have put forth platforms that address some or all of these issues are Libertarian Gary Johnson and Green Party candidate Jill Stein. At least, they are talking about their platforms and not engaging in name-calling or mud slinging.

In the past, voting for a third-party candidate meant that an individual was throwing his/her vote away. I don't think that will happen in this election. The major party candidates are a businessman who is running on his celebrity and a career politician who knows how to play the game, but mishandled government information and got caught. Neither has a definite platform. I hope and pray that Millennial voters do their research and a third-party candidate with a substantive platform gets elected by plurality.

Response by SPC Kevin Ford made Oct 22 at 2016 12:19 PM

2016-10-22T12:19:49-04:00

Quite frankly the issues in the debates seem more of a background prop for the candidates to continue their ongoing drama. Veterans are usually not the first policy concern because as others stated we are a subset of the population. It usually takes deep policy discussions to get to veterans issues and deep policy discussions are not what we are getting.

Response by Candy Alkaabi made Oct 22 at 2016 3:05 PM

2016-10-22T15:05:02-04:00

Its something they want to sweep under the rug so they make a bigger issue of smaller issues while stepping all over the rights of vets.

Response by CPT Joseph K Murdock made Oct 23 at 2016 2:35 PM

2016-10-23T14:35:46-04:00

Civilians have not experienced the deprivation and dangers of war.

Response by CH (COL) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2016 1:04 PM

2016-10-25T13:04:32-04:00

Elections are marketing campaigns. Veterans only make up 9% of the population. Who in their right minds spends resources trying to reach only 9% of the people? Simple reality is that NO ONE CARES. Americans only want to know that they do not have to BECOME veterans. Even the Politicians that posture before the cameras and beat their chests about veteran issues DON'T REALLY CARE. They only want to be perceived as someone that cares and fights to right a wrong. Now THAT reaches 91% of the people and even fools SOME of the veterans. (Yes, I know that there are exceptions. They are usually vets and aren't in politics for long). Bottom line is, we are only good for what we can be USED for.

Response by SPC Aaron Baker made Oct 29 at 2016 9:17 PM

2016-10-29T21:17:15-04:00

Homeless veterans sleeping on sidewalks and under bridges. Disabled fighting the VA to get what they need. PTSD claiming the lives of veterans at the rate of 22 a day. And no one cares.

Response by SGM Enrique Nater made Oct 29 at 2016 10:14 PM

2016-10-29T22:14:56-04:00

This is what I know, presidential debates are scheduled and basically run by the US Elections Commission. The moderator selects the questions to be asked with some questions coming from people thru social media. The moderator's political biases, likes and dislikes of candidates, and desires for recognition determinate the topics he/she selects. As stated, we are a small voting group, but can make a big difference when we all vote. The candidates intent is best known from what they say in rallies and interviews. It pays to follow their campaigns throughout. Notice that Hillary hardly mentioned us. Trump mentions veterans almost all the time.

Response by SGM Enrique Nater made Oct 29 at 2016 10:53 PM

2016-10-29T22:53:22-04:00

Also remember, that we served, and still serving not for those running the game, but to defend the US Constitution. THE BEST In the world, our Freedom Document. when the elected, turns against it, and become self serving, they have to be sent home. Term limits is one solution to government decay. I am a proud Vietnam Vet . This We'lll Defend.

Response by Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth made Oct 31 at 2016 10:31 AM

2016-10-31T10:31:46-04:00

I believe it is too political of a hot potato nationwide to be brought up during elections. Every state has their issues with VA's and veterans issues. Suicides and veterans deaths are not popular news items until we are attacked again. When something happens then veterans issues will be brought to the forefront again until e-mail hacking or some "leader" sexting takes center stage then it gets swept under the rug. It is popular conversation in local circles where small reforms can be enacted but not on the national stage. No senator or representative wants to take that on and admit their state is bad with respect to veterans and VA issues and that they are not doing enough for veterans. Also, most people feel that veterans already get enough through their retirement and should have to go through what every one else does but what they don't realize is what our veterans have already gone through. I just believe that veterans issues are the proverbial can that candidates try to kick down the road until the elections are over because it is too contentious of an issue. The US sees us Veterans no different than a tool like a saw or a shovel...use it when you need it but when you put it on the shelf and it rust and has served its purpose it is taking up space in the shed and they want to throw it away and buy a newer younger version versus knocking off the rust, painting and cleaning it up again and making it useful. Just don't want to justify that to the American people

This whole election is based on mudslinging and no meat...absolutely the worst I have ever seen...local to national level!!!

Response by CAPT Hiram Patterson made Nov 3 at 2016 7:34 PM

2016-11-03T19:34:22-04:00

The debate moderators weren't concerned with veterans.