Dear Mr. Trump,
As I sit down to write this letter, I find myself in an unexpected position: I actually agree with you on a point. During a forum in Herndon, Virginia, on October 3, you discussed the urgent need for better support for veterans suffering from PTSD and other mental health issues. You stated that the Department of Veterans Affairs is broken and in need of reform, and I wholeheartedly concur. Unfortunately, that’s where our agreement ends.
Your remarks included a troubling assertion that soldiers returning from combat can be divided into those who are strong enough to cope and those who are not—specifically referring to veterans who struggle with PTSD and, tragically, may take their own lives. Mr. Trump, this statement is not only misguided but also immensely harmful. Associating mental health struggles with a lack of strength only serves to perpetuate the stigma that surrounds mental health issues, which we have fought hard to dismantle.
As a veteran who has lived with mental illness, I can tell you that the reality is far more complex. I served my country 15 years ago and have battled deep depression and anxiety throughout my life—despite never experiencing combat. Now, consider the immense challenges faced by today’s soldiers, who often know nothing but war.
For nearly two decades post-9/11, brave men and women have been deployed into perilous situations, only to return home with minimal support. According to MentalHealthFirstAid.org, around 30% of active duty and reserve personnel deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan—approximately 730,000 individuals—have a mental health condition requiring treatment. Disturbingly, less than half of returning veterans in need actually receive assistance.
These heroes are sent into combat for 12 to 18 months, return for a brief respite, and are then redeployed. They witness horrors we can scarcely imagine and endure the loss of comrades. Their strength lies not just in their ability to serve but in their resilience in the face of unimaginable hardship.
As someone who aspires to the highest office in the land, I would expect you to be informed about these realities and to choose your words with care. If elected, you would not just be the president but also the commander-in-chief of those you imply may lack the strength to endure.
Frankly, your comments about veterans do not surprise me. Throughout your campaign, you have consistently insulted and belittled veterans, using them as tools for your agenda of fear. Here are just a few examples of your disparaging statements regarding the military:
- You dismissed John McCain, a decorated soldier, POW, and senator, by saying he was not a war hero, claiming, “He’s a war hero because he was captured. I like people that weren’t captured, OK?”
- You mocked the Khan family (a Gold Star family) for their Muslim faith when they expressed their discontent with your divisive rhetoric.
- You trivialized the honor of the Purple Heart when a supporter handed you a replica, saying, “I always wanted to get one of these. This was much easier.”
- You accused American soldiers of stealing money while serving abroad.
- You assert that you know how to run the military best, despite never having served a day in your life and receiving multiple deferments for a supposed foot injury.
Mental health challenges such as PTSD have nothing to do with strength. Instead, they exploit vulnerabilities, fears, and insecurities. They can make individuals feel weak and as though they are failing, which is a sentiment I know all too well—much like the way you describe our nation and the tactics you employ to attain your goals.
So yes, I agree: veterans do require more assistance, and the VA is in dire need of reform. However, you are not the right person to lead this change. Your campaign has been marked by insults directed at anyone who dares to disagree with you, including women, minorities, individuals of various faiths, the disabled, and even the very military you claim to honor.
The courageous men and women of our armed forces are among the strongest people I know. They can handle immense challenges, but they should not have to endure your leadership.
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In summary, while we may share a common belief that veterans need more support, your approach and attitudes are deeply problematic. The strength of our military personnel should be celebrated, not diminished.
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