Veterans & Military

Florida's 16th Congressional District is home to tens of thousands of veterans who have served our nation with honor and distinction. From the large veteran community in Sun City Center to active-duty families in Brandon and Riverview, our district has a deep and proud connection to military service. John Peters believes that the men and women who wore the uniform deserve nothing less than our best, and he will fight to ensure they receive the care, benefits, and respect they have earned.

Fixing VA Healthcare

Too many veterans in our district face unacceptable wait times at VA facilities. Veterans in Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, and Palmetto should not have to wait weeks or months for an appointment. John Peters supports expanding the MISSION Act to give veterans more choices in where they receive care, including at private providers closer to home. He will fight for increased funding for VA medical centers serving the Tampa Bay region and push for accountability when the VA falls short.

Mental Health and Suicide Prevention

Veteran suicide remains a national crisis, and our district is not immune. John Peters supports dramatically expanding access to mental health services for veterans, including same-day mental health appointments at VA facilities and increased funding for community-based veteran support organizations. He believes that every veteran in Valrico, Fish Hawk, and Apollo Beach should have immediate access to crisis support when they need it.

Jobs, Education, and Transition Support

Transitioning from military service to civilian life is one of the biggest challenges veterans face. John Peters supports expanding GI Bill benefits, creating more apprenticeship and vocational training opportunities for veterans, and incentivizing businesses in Ellenton, Parrish, and throughout Manatee County to hire veterans. He will work to ensure that the skills veterans developed in service translate directly to rewarding civilian careers.

John also supports increasing housing assistance for veterans, strengthening support programs for military families, and ensuring that the families of fallen service members receive the full benefits they are owed. Our veterans gave everything for this country; the least we can do is keep our promises to them.