Now that President Biden is hanging up his hat for the rest of the 2024 election cycle, attention is turning to Kamala Harris, who is likely to take the nomination from the Democratic National Party (DNP). However, there are a few possible candidates to run with her as Vice President garnering attention as the spotlight shifts. One prominent name in the mix is North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper. Below, we’re breaking down Roy Cooper, his military service, and what he might bring to the community if elected as VP.
Was Roy Cooper a Veteran?
No, Roy Cooper is not a Veteran and has not served in the U.S. military.
This lack of military service is in part due to his nearly two decades of practicing law and over three decades of public service through various political positions.
Although Gov. Roy Cooper isn’t a Veteran, he has supported many notable causes for the military community. For example, this includes the Tar Heel State, which has one of the largest Veteran populations.
How Gov. Cooper Helps the Military Community in North Carolina
North Carolina prides itself on being the friendliest state for the military. Roy Cooper has helped make this a reality for the many families who call it home.
You’ll find plenty of property tax exemptions, state employment preferences, privileges for hunting and fishing, special vehicle tags, and financial assistance for education in North Carolina.
These policies are available for the large active-duty military presence as well as over 720,000 Veterans who are North Carolina residents.
Throughout his tenure in various roles, Gov. Cooper has been outspoken about supporting the military community, proven by his initiatives.
One notable example is the creation of the Governor’s Working Group on Veterans Affairs. A group that provides Veterans with resources and benefits through employment, job creation, finance/legal help, as well as health assistance.
Additionally, Roy Cooper has worked to expand Medicaid for 500,000 residents, greatly affecting the Veteran population while generating job creation, lowering health insurance, and keeping rural hospitals open.
If Governor Roy Cooper Becomes VP, How Is the Military Affected?
It’s unclear exactly how Roy Cooper would affect the military should he become Vice President; however, here are a few things we know:
- Gov. Cooper has proven to provide support and funding for multiple causes involving the military community.
- Furthermore, his track record of fighting for affordable, reliable healthcare is an important consideration for the military community.
- Although indirectly involved, the U.S. has a high interest in the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Gov. Cooper has supported a two-state solution in the region.
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