John –

On this Veteran’s Day, we honor the service and sacrifice of those who have answered the call to serve our great nation.

Following the 9/11 attacks, I made the decision to serve in uniform to protect the values that America represents – the freedoms and democracy that protected my family fleeing persecution, the opportunity that allowed me to build a better life. As a U.S. Navy reserve Intelligence Officer, I witnessed firsthand the dedication and determination of my fellow service members.

I served alongside incredible men and women who put their lives on the line. They asked for nothing in return but deserve a country that does right by them. Last year, Congress finally passed the PACT Act, which provides health benefits to veterans who were exposed to toxic substances during their service.

The PACT Act was passed with bipartisan support – even Ted Cruz and Matt Gaetz voted for it. But David Schweikert voted no. Seeing him vote no was one of the moments that made me decide to run for Congress.

And then, earlier this year, David Schweikert sent an email to his constituents bragging about his work for veterans and encouraging them to sign up for benefits from the PACT Act despite having voted against them. Pure hypocrisy.

We’re used to seeing Republican politicians showing up at ribbon cuttings after voting against the Infrastructure Bill. But this isn’t a road or bridge; it’s veterans’ lives. Our veterans deserve better, and that’s why I’m running for Congress.

Always in your service,

– Andrei