Can Dem veterans running for Congress reclaim the patriotism narrative from the GOP?
Summary
Several Democratic military veterans running for Congress in 2026 say they want to show that patriotism is not just for one political party. They believe that loving and serving the country means working to improve it and upholding its values. Polls show that more Republicans feel proud to be American than Democrats, but these candidates challenge the idea that patriotism belongs only to Republicans.Key Facts
- A 2026 Ipsos poll found 63% of Republicans feel very proud to be American, compared to only 14% of Democrats.
- Veteran Democrats say criticizing government policies can be a form of patriotism because it shows a desire to make the country better.
- Nancy Lacore, a retired Vice Admiral and Democratic candidate in South Carolina, defines patriotism as service and upholding the Constitution, not just displaying flags or cheering.
- Leela Gray, a retired Army brigadier general running in Florida, emphasizes trust and unity over party differences in her military service experience.
- Kansas Democratic candidates Patrick Schmidt and Noah Taylor, both military veterans, do not believe Democrats have "lost the plot" on patriotism.
- These candidates see themselves as part of a Democratic effort to show patriotism despite lower pride polls among their party.
- Some of these candidates are running in competitive districts aiming to flip seats from Republicans to Democrats.
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