Just Where is the 'Veteran' Vote?

Jason Dempsey, United States Army

Abstract

Someone casually reading the news would have the right to be confused over seemingly contradictory stories on the political preferences of military service members and veterans. According to Gallup, "Veterans Give Romney Big Lead Over Obama," while Reuters claims that "Weary Warriors Favor Obama." Both are true. Understanding why will help dispel some stereotypes about the military while also highlighting that we are in the midst of a generational shift in military attitudes.