In the ever-evolving landscape of American politics, a new wave of candidates is emerging, driven by a desire to challenge the status quo. Among them is Alex Scheel a veteran of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan who is making a bold move to unseat incumbent Rep. Marilyn Strickland in Washington’s 10th Congressional District.
Scheel’s journey into politics was inspired by the resounding victory of Graham Platner a fellow veteran and oysterman who won his primary in Maine in June 2026. Like Platner, Scheel brings a unique perspective shaped by his military experience and a commitment to progressive values.
The Radicalizing Experience of War
Born in San Diego in 1987 and raised in northern Michigan, Scheel joined the military in 2007. His service as an interrogator in Iraq and later in intelligence in Afghanistan had a profound impact on him. Scheel describes this period as radicalizing as he found common ground with the people he was trained to see as enemies.
One particular interaction with a man named Muthanna left a lasting impression on Scheel. Muthanna shared the devastating consequences of the U.S. invasion, including the loss of his father and the destruction of essential infrastructure. This encounter helped Scheel understand the human cost of war and the importance of empathy in politics.
A Commitment to Progressive Values
After leaving the military in 2014, Scheel moved to Washington and became involved in community activism. His experience with the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) and his work on the Tiki tenants fight in Tacoma demonstrated his commitment to housing justice and other progressive causes.
Scheel’s campaign is a departure from the traditional model of recruiting veterans to challenge Republican incumbents. Instead, he is running on a platform that includes Medicare for All housing justice, and an anti-war stance. He is also refusing corporate PAC money and AIPAC money, setting himself apart from the establishment.
The Challenge Ahead
Scheel faces an uphill battle against Strickland, who has a significant financial advantage and the backing of the local party. However, Scheel believes that his time organizing in the area and the growing hunger for change among voters will help him narrow that disadvantage.
The 2026 election cycle has seen a 47 percent increase in candidates with military backgrounds, according to data from the advocacy group With Honor. This trend reflects a broader desire for normal, regular, working-class people to step up and make a difference in politics.
As Scheel puts it, People are hungry for normal, regular, working-class people to step up and say, ‘If we get together, we can build power, and we can make America, we can make the world a better, safer, peaceful place.’
