POLL: Veterans Know America Can’t Afford Government Shutdowns
Government shutdowns aren’t just political theater; they create real consequences for America’s security, economy, and the veterans who have already sacrificed to protect our nation. The Prevent Government Shutdowns Act (PGSA) offers a commonsense solution by requiring Congress to stay at work until it fulfills its most fundamental responsibility: funding the government while ensuring essential services continue uninterrupted. For an organization founded on the belief that veterans’ leadership can help build a stronger America, this is exactly the kind of accountability Americans expect from their elected leaders.
New polling confirms that veterans and military families overwhelmingly agree government shutdowns harm national security and jeopardize our future as a country. Congress should put the PGSA up for a vote. At a time when confidence in government is strained, passing the Prevent Government Shutdowns Act would demonstrate that Washington can still put service, responsibility, and the country’s interests ahead of political gamesmanship.
Across every major measure, support for the Prevent Government Shutdowns Act (PGSA) is broad, bipartisan in framing, and remarkably consistent between the two audiences. The findings include:
- Government shutdowns are viewed as a national security risk. Nearly eight in ten respondents agree that shutdowns are harmful to national security, including 77% of veterans and 78% of military family members. This reinforces the argument that budget dysfunction has consequences beyond politics; it affects America’s readiness and security.
- There is overwhelming support for congressional action. After learning about the PGSA, 88% of veterans and 87% of military family members believe Congress should bring the legislation up for a vote. This is one of the strongest findings in the survey and demonstrates an overwhelming appetite for action rather than continued brinksmanship.
- Shutdowns are seen as harmful to veterans. 72% of veterans and 78% of military family members believe government shutdowns are bad for veterans, underscoring the perceived real-world consequences for those who have served.
- The legislation itself is even more popular than simply bringing it to a vote. Support for legislation requiring Congress to remain in Washington until a budget is completed while keeping the government operating reaches 91% among veterans and 89% among military families, with overwhelming “strong support” (77% and 72%, respectively). This suggests respondents are not just interested in debate; they strongly support the underlying policy.
- Supporting the PGSA carries political upside. Roughly three-quarters of respondents say they would be more likely to vote for a candidate who supports the legislation (78% of veterans; 73% of military family members), while virtually no one says they would be less likely. This indicates the issue is not only popular but politically advantageous.
- Government shutdowns themselves are unpopular. Majorities in both groups oppose government shutdowns outright (65% of veterans; 66% of military family members), providing broader context that the public prefers governing over confrontation.
