About Kirsten Gillibrand
Rising Democratic star
The battle for the New York Senate seat formerly held by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has been action-packed since day one. Numerous high-profile GOP and Democratic names have been floated as potential challengers to incumbent Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, the rising Democratic star who was appointed to fill the seat in January 2009. Since joining the Senate, Gillibrand has hit the ground running, making a name for herself as a top advocate for reproductive freedom, LGBT rights, and health care reform. With a proven commitment to progressive issues, Gillibrand has earned key endorsements, building the momentum she’ll need to win this race. But with a number of possible candidates eyeing the seat – including right-leaning former Tennessee congressman Harold Ford, Jr. – Gillibrand needs immediate support from EMILY’s List members to hold onto this seat.
Dedicated leadership
Gillibrand was raised in upstate New York in a family committed to public service. Her grandmother, a women’s rights activist, founded the Albany Democratic Women’s Club and obviously passed the political bug to Gillibrand. Determined to engage more women in politics, Gillibrand served as chair of the Women’s Leadership Forum Network to encourage political activism among women under 40. In 2006, she boldly took on an entrenched Republican incumbent to wrest New York’s 20th district from GOP hands. A proven campaigner who built an impressive grassroots network during her House races, Gillibrand knows how to run a winning race. She’s already crisscrossing the state to get her message out to New York voters and prove she’s the best voice to represent them in Washington.
A tough battle
From former governors to self-funders, the list of potential challengers to Gillibrand has been wide and far-reaching. One high-profile possibility is anti-choice former Tennessee Cong. Harold Ford, Jr., who has publicly toyed with the idea of jumping in to the Democratic primary. And while his anti-choice and anti-gay rights voting record likely won’t win over New York voters, Ford has the connections – and funding – to make this a fiercely competitive race, if he decides to get in. Gillibrand is exactly the effective, pro-choice Democratic leader the Senate needs, leading the way for transparency among elected leaders and passing crucial legislation to aid small businesses and promote job creation. In order to continue her work in the Senate, Kirsten is counting on support from EMILY’s List members to make sure she keeps this seat in November.
