Trump Struggles for Veteran Support Amid 2024 Election Campaign
As the 2024 US presidential election approaches, Donald Trump is making significant efforts to win over military veterans, a crucial demographic for any candidate. However, his recent visit to Arlington National Cemetery has sparked backlash from some veterans who feel betrayed by his actions. War veteran Brad Berkwitt expressed his anger on social media, labeling Trump a 'traitorous traitor' for his role in the January 6 Capitol riots, arguing that he should not be allowed to honor fallen soldiers. This sentiment is echoed by other veterans who share Berkwitt's discontent.
Despite the criticism, Trump has received support from certain veterans, including Republican Congressman Mike Waltz, who praised Trump's dedication to military personnel. However, the former president's comments about civilian honors being superior to military ones have not helped his image among veterans. His recent speeches have emphasized the perceived failures of President Biden, particularly the withdrawal from Afghanistan, which Trump claims has led to a decline in American credibility on the world stage.
In contrast, Kamala Harris is currently leading the polls against Trump, with a 48.4% chance of winning compared to Trump's 46.9%. This shift in the political landscape comes after President Biden's withdrawal from the race, which has allowed Harris to gain traction. Polls indicate that Harris is favored in 11 out of 15 surveys, with a strong presence in key battleground states. As the election nears, both candidates are vying for the support of the military community, a demographic that could significantly influence the outcome of the election.