Do Active Military Support Biden?
As the 2020 presidential election approached, one of the most significant questions on everyone’s mind was whether active military personnel would support Joe Biden. With a strong military background, Trump had garnered significant support from the military community in 2016. But how did the active military community feel about Biden, a veteran himself with a distinguished record of service?
Understanding the Complexities
To answer this question, it’s essential to understand the complexities involved. The military is a diverse group, comprising individuals from different backgrounds, cultures, and political affiliations. It’s challenging to generalize their views on a single candidate, including Biden. Additionally, the military has a tradition of apolitical service, where individual beliefs and opinions are left at the door.
Biden’s Military Record
Joe Biden has a staunch military background, with a record that spans over 40 years. As a young man, he enlisted in the United States Navy in 1965, serving on the USS Josephus Daniels. During his time in the Navy, Biden earned a commission as a Lieutenant Junior Grade and spent eight years on active duty, including two tours in Vietnam. After leaving the Navy, Biden continued to serve in the United States Senate Committee on Armed Services, working closely with the military on various legislative initiatives.
Military Endorsements
In the 2020 presidential election, Biden received significant military endorsements from high-ranking officials and veterans’ organizations. General (Ret.) Mark A. Milley, the current Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, publicly endorsed Biden, citing his experience and commitment to the military. The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), a leading veterans’ organization, also endorsed Biden, praising his "unwavering commitment to the men and women who serve our country."
Military Voter Survey
A poll conducted by the Military Times in October 2020 surveyed over 1,000 active-duty and veteran military personnel. The results showed that 58% of respondents supported Biden, while 34% backed Trump. The poll also found that 61% of military voters were more likely to support a candidate who supports the military, highlighting the importance of military issues in the election.
Key Issues Affecting Military Support
So, what issues led active military personnel to support Biden? Some of the key factors include:
- Veteran Affairs: Biden has a strong record on veterans’ issues, advocating for increased funding and better services for those who have served. His proposal to increase the Department of Veterans Affairs’ budget by 15% resonated with many veterans.
- Military Modernization: Biden has called for a modernization of the US military, investing in new technologies and equipment to stay ahead of emerging threats. This focus on innovation and modernization appealed to many active-duty personnel.
- Social Issues: The military has a strong cultural focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion. Biden’s commitment to these values, including his support for LGBTQ+ rights and women in the military, resonated with many service members.
Contrasting Views
Not everyone in the military community supports Biden, however. Some conservative military personnel were critical of Biden’s positions on gun control and climate change, which they saw as a threat to the Second Amendment and the military’s way of life.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while it’s difficult to generalize the views of active military personnel on a single candidate, the available evidence suggests that many support Joe Biden. Biden’s military background, endorsements from high-ranking officials and veterans’ organizations, and his commitment to key military issues have contributed to this support. However, it’s essential to recognize that the military is a diverse group, and opinions will always vary.
