Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Trump visits the U.S.-Mexico border at Eagle Pass

The 2024 presidential primaries and caucuses are heating up, especially in states with high rates of active-duty service members and veterans like Texas, California, Virginia, and North Carolina. In North Carolina, a traditionally red state known for being military-friendly, progressive groups are making a push to sway the veteran vote.

Veterans in North Carolina have varying political views, with some like Ryan Rogers, who served in Afghanistan and Iraq, criticizing the Biden administration’s handling of the Kabul attacks and leaning towards the right. On the other hand, veterans like Ric Vandett, a Vietnam veteran, are hesitant to support former President Donald Trump due to his actions surrounding the 2020 election and the Capitol attacks.

Recent statements by Trump, including controversial remarks about NATO countries and military families, have raised concerns among Democrats and progressive groups. Despite Trump’s strong support among military veterans in the 2020 election, there is a sense that there may be an opening to appeal to this demographic.

Progressive groups like VoteVets are planning a multimillion-dollar campaign targeting veterans and military families in key battleground states. They are highlighting Trump’s history of disparaging remarks about the armed forces and positioning him as a threat to American values.

The upcoming election in North Carolina and other states will be crucial in determining the outcome of the presidential race. Both Democrats and Republicans are vying for the support of veterans, who have historically shown high voter turnout rates. The political landscape is shifting, and the veteran vote could play a significant role in deciding the next president of the United States.