Democrats are increasingly leveraging the military and national security backgrounds of candidates to counter the perception of weakness and regain political momentum. Rep. Mikie Sherrill’s victory in the New Jersey gubernatorial primary has galvanized the ‘Hellcats’ group of aspiring female congresswomen, highlighting the significance of their military backgrounds. Sherrill, a former Navy helicopter pilot, and Abigail Spanberger, a former congresswoman and CIA officer, are seen as models for the party’s strategy to run candidates who embody a blend of public service and political aspirations.
The strategy is part of a broader effort by Democrats to address the growing perception that they are weak on national security, which has been a major liability in recent elections. According to Dan Sena, the former executive director of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, veterans and national security officials have consistently shown their ability to win in the most challenging districts and states. This cycle, the same dynamics are playing out, as candidates with military backgrounds are seen as having a unique ability to connect with voters on issues of patriotism and public service.
Democrats argue that these candidates can point to their service records as an extension of their political aspirations, helping to counter Republican claims that the Democratic Party is too focused on the elite and too cautious. This approach is part of a larger effort to redefine the party’s identity in the eyes of the public. As Jared Leopold, a former communications director for the Democratic Governors Association, noted, ‘Patriotism is a value that the Democrats shouldn’t be afraid to talk about.’ This is seen as a productive conversation that can lead to discussions on everyday issues like healthcare, education, and economic security.
The success of these candidates is also attributed to the fundraising capabilities of their military and national security backgrounds. For instance, Ryan Crosswell, a Marine and federal prosecutor who resigned after being pressured by President Donald Trump to drop charges against Eric Adams, raised over $215,000 within the first 48 hours of announcing his campaign. This fundraising success is seen as a testament to the effectiveness of the strategy, as it not only brings in necessary funds but also helps to build a strong network of support.
However, the strategy is not without its challenges. As seen in the case of former Democratic presidential nominee John Kerry, military experience can be turned against a candidate in the form of ‘swift boat’ attacks. Similarly, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz’s military record came under scrutiny when he was elevated to the vice presidential nomination. These examples highlight the risks that Democratic candidates with military backgrounds may face, particularly in the current political climate.
Despite these challenges, the ‘Hellcats’ group continues to be a significant force in the Democratic strategy. Members like Rebecca Bennett, a former Navy officer, and Cait Conley, an Army veteran and former National Security Council official, represent the party’s commitment to leveraging military experience in political campaigns. Their unique identities as veterans and mothers also offer a platform to discuss financial strains like high daycare costs, further expanding the party’s appeal to a broader electorate.
In conclusion, the Democratic Party’s strategy of using veterans and national security officials as candidates is a calculated move to counter Republican claims of weakness and regain political leverage. By emphasizing the importance of patriotism and public service, Democrats aim to reshape their image and address the voter sentiment that has been a challenge for the party. While there are risks associated with this approach, the potential benefits in terms of fundraising and public perception are significant, making this a crucial component of the party’s 2026 electoral strategy.