Leo Shane III

The unconventional Republican’s surprise victory this week has left defense watchers scrambling to figure out who will take over key national security posts next year.

With only 68 days before the inauguration, transition teams already are headed to federal departments today.

The increase in lawmakers who served in the recent wars comes despite an overall drop in the number of representatives and senators with military experience.

The controversial business mogul overcame negative polls and numerous scandals to become the nation’s 45th commander in chief.

Specifics on military policy and veterans assistance has largely taken a back seat in recent months to scandals and controversy only tangentially related to the issues.

These races could influence which party sets next year’s defense agenda and who will compose the team that writes defense budget bills.

Retired Gen. James Amos is backing Army vet and long-time Republican Rep. Darrell Issa over Democratic challenger and fellow Marine veteran Doug Applegate.

Democratic Rep. Tammy Duckworth leads incumbent Republican Sen. Mark Kirk in a state contest with national implications.

Joe Heck, an Army Reservist and key defense voice for congressional Republicans, will be crucial for his party to retain control of the upper chamber.

Even as the number of young vets running for office rises, the overall total of vets is expected to drop again.