NEW YORK, NY, – The States Project (TSP) and VoteVets today announced a new first-of-its-kind partnership designed to build power for aligned veteran lawmakers within state legislative chambers. This collaboration, which aims to raise $250,000, will focus on fueling races and supporting veterans running for state legislative office, starting with the Virginia House of Delegates this November, and continuing in other TSP-focused states through the 2026 elections.
This initiative addresses the critical need to ensure that veterans’ voices are amplified in state capitols, including in states like Virginia, where nearly 10 percent of residents have served in the military. In a moment when funding for federal programs, including at the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, is under attack, the importance of strong state-level leaders is more urgent than ever.
“With federal programs for veterans under attack, the importance of strong state-level leaders has never been more urgent,” said Mandara Meyers, executive director of The States Project. “This partnership will fuel majority-making races to elect veterans whose lived experience can fuel their service in state capitols. The States Project is proud to work alongside VoteVets to help elect state lawmakers who will honor the sacrifices made by our servicemembers as they continue their service to our country.”
“As the rightwing take a wrecking ball to the Federal government, shut it down, and make our troops, veterans and military families pay the price, it is crucial that we continue to build our ranks outside of DC — the last line of defense. Veterans make up some of the most exciting next generation of leaders, and we’re excited to supercharge our support of them alongside The States Project,” said Max Rose, former Congressman, Veteran, and VoteVets senior advisor.
The funds raised will fuel races for state legislative seats, to build governing power for pro-democracy veterans who can champion policies that safeguard veterans’ well-being and uphold democratic values.
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The States Project connects the importance of state legislatures to every aspect of our lives and brings together communities to help build a healthy, sustainable, and prosperous future for all. Our electoral work focuses on winning governing majorities in the states by making state legislative campaigns more effective and better funded. We do it because we believe that state legislatures are the strongest force for change in this country.
Founded in 2006, VoteVets PAC endorses and works to elect veterans and national security professionals to all levels of government, and elevates the voices of veterans and military families who support them. The group also supports those elected officials who have the backs of our troops, veterans, and their families.
