Kirsten believes it is our responsibility stand up for brave service members and first responders who protect us every single day. She overcame tough partisan opposition to secure the passage of the Zadroga Act, which provides health care and compensation for 9/11 first responders affected by the toxins at Ground Zero. She advocates for justice for victims of sexual assault in the military by fighting to pass the Military Justice Improvement Act, legislation that would move decision making in sexual assault cases from the military chain of command to trained military prosecutors. She was a strong voice for opening up combat positions to women and is now focused on the recruitment and retention of women in these positions, and setting them up for success. Today, she is leading the fight to allow continued transgender service in the military.