Why is being a veteran such a big deal for candidates

I think typically people in the service learn a level of respect, discipline, and hard work that surpasses the ordinary citizen. Of course there are exceptions, but I think people appreciate the potential of those qualities.

It's not a huge deal for me, but I understand why it is for others.

I just hate when they start with "as a vet", blah, blah , blah. Serving doesn't make your opinion any better than anyone else.

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And the potential of those qualities can be magnified negatively also as in the Hitler example

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Sure, and that's why you don't vote on one single attribute.

But if you agree with the candidate on most issues, them being a Vet tends to be a net positive because of the qualities I posted above.

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If someone is going to be an extremist I'd prefer they be less competent, not more.

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I'd rather not vote for someone who's incompetent.

You realize that some candy-arse sounds bout like bmy or texridder is going to call you hero.

said a bunch of soft civilians
down vote away, it's like your tears

I agree with you to a point Strannix, especially if you were just Pvt Beetle Bailey shoveling horse shite in Louisiana the whole time, however there are accomplished candidates such as McSally and James, both of whose service can be counted as a feather in their cap especially against their competition. Their service and accomplishments do not at all represent the totality of their credibility as a viable candidate, we must look at their whole platform and stance on issues. For folks like the two I mentioned, it counts as a net positive in a lot of people’s eyes.

Sorry for the run on sentences but typing on iPhone.

I know a young guy that scored over 30 on the ACT. He had a scholarship offer from several top schools. He chose LSU. His parents went through a divorce during his time there and he joined the service to get extra spending money to offset expenses. He ended up in the Marines straight out of college and ended up in Afganistan. Was grazed by a bullet in the head. Came home and was sent right back after recovery. He was an officer who led men under fire. I would vote for him over any kid who just rode through because his parents were rich or they were politicians.

It tells the world youre not a selfish nancy boy twat, and it's not beneath you to wear a uniform.

Because members of our military get indoctrinated in all the qualities we long for in our culture, especially leadership qualities, which is the purpose of electing them. They possess qualities and core values that aren't all that common in our general population. Having separation papers that reflect Honorable Service is your first clue that the political candidate has lived a life (at some point) with the following attributes:


Honor
Courage
Commitment
Dedication to Duty
Selfless Service
Humanitarian
Respectful
Integrity
Loyalty
Pride
Tradition
Excellence

These core values and principles are applied to themselves, their country, and most importantly... our Constitution. A Constitution that they will give their life to defend for YOU.

That's why you consider their Veteran status when casting your vote. Regardless of candidates political party affiliation.

Because some of us put our lives on hold to serve our nation. It would be much easier to go to school, get started in a job and start building social networks without taking out 4 or more years to bounce all around the world with little control over your life.

It makes a difference to me if I know a veteran is running for office because I at least have some knowledge to indicate that person has not completely been focused on their own personal advancement like many of the ivy league political class. I tend to draw a similar conclusion from folks that are small business owners.