The nation’s nearly 19 million military veterans live in every state and territory—and they also serve in state legislatures. After the 2022 elections, NCSL identified at least 748 military veterans serving in the legislatures of the 50 states and five U.S. territories, accounting for about 10% of the nation’s 7,575 state and territorial lawmakers. Military veteran legislators represent every branch of the armed forces and the National Guard.