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- The Veterans Caucus in Congress is working to bridge the political divide through bipartisan efforts.
- The caucus has been instrumental in passing over 100 bills related to national security, veterans’ issues, and military families.
- Despite a declining number of veterans in Congress, the caucus expects to gain at least five new members in the next Congress.
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Essential Context
In a deeply partisan Congress, the Veterans Caucus stands out for its bipartisan approach. Formed in 2019, the caucus aims to bring together lawmakers with military backgrounds to work on legislation that benefits the country, particularly in areas like national security, veterans’ affairs, and national service.
Core Players
- Rep. Jason Crow – Co-chair of the For Country Caucus, former Army Ranger.
- Rep. Tony Gonzales – Co-chair of the For Country Caucus, retired Navy chief petty officer.
- Rep. Jake Ellzey – Incoming co-chair, former F/A-18 pilot and Air Force Academy alumnus.
- Rep. Don Davis – Incoming co-chair, Air Force Academy alumnus and North Carolina Democrat.
Key Numbers
- 97 – Number of lawmakers with military backgrounds elected in 2022.
- 401 – Number of veterans in Congress in 1973.
- 8% – Percentage of the House expected to be part of the Veterans Caucus in the next Congress.
- 100+ – Number of bills passed into law by the Veterans Caucus.
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The Catalyst
The idea of forming a bipartisan caucus was born out of the need to bridge the political divide in Congress. “We just don’t get as much attention when we’re actually working together,” said Rep. Steve Womack, a Republican member and retired colonel in the Army National Guard.
This initiative began in 2019, with the goal of advancing agendas that would benefit the country.
Inside Forces
The Veterans Caucus operates on a “warrior ethos,” characterized by deadlines, high-pressure situations, and a focus on common goals. This ethos helps members work together effectively despite partisan differences.
The caucus has been successful in passing legislation such as increasing payments to help military families with deployment costs and allowing federal agencies to appoint military spouses to remote work positions.
Power Dynamics
The caucus is led by members from both parties, including Rep. Jason Crow and Rep. Tony Gonzales, who will hand over leadership to Rep. Jake Ellzey and Rep. Don Davis. This bipartisan leadership ensures that the caucus remains committed to its goals without being swayed by partisan politics.
Members of the caucus sit on various committees and meet regularly, including breakfast briefings with high-ranking military officials and discussions on national service initiatives.
Outside Impact
The work of the Veterans Caucus has broader implications for national policy. The caucus has been instrumental in efforts such as establishing the Global War on Terrorism Memorial on the National Mall and supporting the evacuation of Afghans who served alongside U.S. military members.
Their legislation also addresses critical issues like mental health services for active-duty military and support for Gold Star Families.
Future Forces
As the number of veterans in Congress continues to decline, the caucus faces the challenge of maintaining its influence. However, with the expected addition of at least five new members in the next Congress, the caucus remains hopeful about its future impact.
Key areas for future legislative focus include strengthening military hunger prevention efforts, expanding support for military spouses and children, and advancing national service initiatives.
Data Points
- 1973: The year when 401 veterans were serving in Congress, accounting for 75% of all seats.
- 2013: The year when the number of veterans in Congress dropped below 100 for the first time.
- 2019: The year the For Country Caucus was formed.
- 2022: The year when 97 lawmakers with military backgrounds were elected.
- 2024: Expected increase in Veterans Caucus members, bringing the total to nearly 8% of the House.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the Veterans Caucus in Congress stands as a beacon of bipartisanship, working tirelessly to address critical national issues and support those who have served their country.
