Why I endorse Senator Kirsten Gillibrand for President
By New Hampshire State Representative Sue Ford
The first time I met Kirsten Gillibrand was at an event in Littleton, New Hampshire. Granite Staters have long enjoyed the privilege of meeting most, if not all, presidential candidates, but Kirsten’s visit was different — she was the first candidate to visit the North Country of New Hampshire, and she did so on her first trip to the state.
At the event I was surrounded by over a hundred voters who appreciated her willingness to visit all corners of the state, but as we waited for her arrival, I was distracted by an 8 year old boy at the event. He was so young and I hoped he would ask a question of the candidate and learn the importance of getting involved in activism and politics now. But I needn’t have worried.
As soon as Senator Gillibrand entered into the room, she walked straight up to that little boy and began speaking to him directly. She wanted to hear from him, learn about what he cared about, and listen to what he had to say.
It was at that moment I realized just how special Kirsten Gillibrand was. Her kindness, empathy, and focus on solutions are absolute. She’s someone who’s spent her entire career focused on helping families and young children — just like her own, and just like that 8 year old boy.
It’s no secret that the 2020 election is the most consequential of our lifetime. Our nation’s founding principles will all be on the ballot next November. That’s why our decision about who to support in the Democratic primary is so important — we need a nominee who has a record of fighting the important fights, who’s demonstrated the bravery to stand up for what’s right even when it’s hard, and who can take on Donald Trump next November and win.
Kirsten Gillibrand is that person.
Senator Gillibrand has shown a fearlessness and bravery through her time in public service that’s become all too rare in Washington.
She’s taken on fights that were hard — like repealing Don’t Ask Don’t Tell — and she’s won.
But she’s also been brave enough to come up with solutions to problems that for too long have been ignored or forgotten. Her recently proposed Family Bill of Rights is radical in its commitment to providing resources for families and young children. Her policy will help level the playing field for millions of families and make sure our children grow up better prepared for their life ahead.
That’s who I want in a president — someone who will fight for what’s right, regardless of what’s usually done or what’s politically expedient.
And I know we can trust her because Senator Gillibrand isn’t just someone who says the right thing; she backs it up with policies, plans, and direct action because that’s the type of candidate she is and the type of president she will be.
Her record of winning over Republicans with progressive policies shows how she can win in the general election. Her history of working quietly and with steadfast determination shows how she’ll be able to get things done.
And as president, I know Senator Gillibrand will continue to listen and care about every American, and will never stop until all of us live in a country that fulfills its promises of freedom, opportunity, and equality.
For these reasons and for so many more — I am proud to support Senator Gillibrand and can’t wait to put in the work to elect her as president.
Sue Ford is a New Hampshire State Representative from Grafton. She is serving her 4th term in the New Hampshire State House and is the current Chair of the House Finance Division II Committee. She is the former Grafton County Democratic Committee Chair and is also the former Grassroots Chair for the New Hampshire Democratic Party.
