270 Reasons: Because Her Policies, Character, and Leadership Ethos Align with My Core Values as a Veteran

Our friends at 270 Reasons are gathering a polyphonic orchestra of brilliant writers, teachers, doctors, filmmakers, artists, and citizens of all kinds to weigh in about their plans to vote this November. These opinion essays run the gamut from advocacy for basic human rights to acutely personal mini-manifestoes. Read the rest over at 270 Reasons.

Because Her Policies, Character, and Leadership Ethos
Align with My Core Values as a Veteran

In 2008, I was stationed at what was then known as Fort Hood, Texas, and I watched on TV as Barack Obama was elected president. It was a profound moment for me personally, as I realized that if “a skinny kid with a funny name” could be elected president of this country, then there was hope after all for me, and for my son, who was months old at the time. I deployed to Iraq less than a year later.

The military instills values like integrity, discipline, and good judgment. Harris’s track record, from her time as a prosecutor to her surgical questioning in Senate hearings, and as vice president, reflects a tenacious commitment to justice and truth. She stands for principles over political expediency.

As an army veteran who served in Iraq, having firsthand experience with the consequences of foreign policy decisions, I appreciate Harris’s approach to international relations. She understands the ramifications of military intervention and the importance of diplomacy to resolve potential conflicts. American troops deserve a commander in chief who will not unnecessarily put them in harm’s way.

I’m voting for Kamala Harris because her policies, character, and leadership ethos align with my core values as a veteran. Harris isn’t merely a politician; she’s a visionary leader committed to honoring veterans’ sacrifices through actionable policies. Her stance on veterans’ issues, foreign policy, and justice isn’t just political rhetoric—it’s a pledge to advance a nation where the voices of everyday Americans not only are heard but are instrumental in shaping policy. She embodies the pursuit of peace, justice, and equality, making her not just a choice but the only choice for those who’ve served. And, like President Obama was for my son, I know she will be a great role model for my daughters.

Naveed Shah currently serves as political director of CommonDefense.us.

Read more essays (with new ones added every day) at 270reasons.com.

The arguments here represent the opinion of the authors and not necessarily those of the McSweeney’s Literary Arts Fund.