JD Vance Highlights Military Contribution and Patriotic States

Senator JD Vance recently addressed military personnel in Virginia Beach, VA, in celebration of 250 years of American history. He emphasized the importance of the military in upholding the Constitution and safeguarding liberty, stating that they represent the best of the United States. Vance expressed confidence in the nation’s future, noting that the next 250 years will benefit from their service.

Patriotism Across the States

A mid-June survey by personal finance company WalletHub ranked the patriotism of all 50 states using more than a dozen indicators. Virginia emerged as the most patriotic state, standing third in military engagement and seventh in civic engagement. WalletHub reported that for every 100,000 civilians in Virginia, there are nearly 1,761 active-duty military personnel, the third-highest in the country. Virginia also ranks second in the number of veterans, with nearly 103 veterans for every 1,000 civilians.

Understanding the Survey

The survey, discussed by WalletHub Financial Writer Adam McCann, showcased where Americans show the most national pride. It compared states using 13 key indicators of patriotism. These indicators range from military enlistees and veterans to voter turnout in the 2024 presidential election and AmeriCorps volunteers per capita. On civic engagement, Virginia showed a high voter turnout rate of 72.9% in the 2024 presidential election, compared to the national average of 66%. Additionally, Virginia has the fifth-highest number of Peace Corps volunteers per capita and requires a standalone civics course for high school graduation.

WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo noted that the most patriotic states have a significant number of residents who have served in the armed forces, show high voter turnouts, and volunteer actively in national or local organizations. These states are spread across various geographic locations, indicating that patriotism isn’t confined to any single area.

Top and Least Patriotic States

Montana was ranked as the second-most patriotic state, partly due to its high voter turnout, with 69.2% participating in the 2024 election. It also leads in primary election turnout and jury service, and many residents volunteer regularly. Vermont, Colorado, and Oregon rounded out the top five patriotic states.

The least patriotic states, as per the survey, included Arkansas, New York, Louisiana, and Alabama. The survey also noted that the 19 states that voted for Kamala Harris in 2024 averaged higher patriotism than the 31 states that supported President Donald Trump. Blue states like Illinois, California, and New York ranked relatively low in the survey.

Alexander Hall, an associate editor for Fox News Digital, compiled this report. For story tips, Alexander can be contacted via email.