When I came out in college, I knew I was interested in a career in public service. But I feared that I would have to face a serious choice between pursuing the field of my dreams or living my authentic life openly.
After seeing others in the LGBTQ+ community demonstrate acts of courage by coming out, being themselves, and being public about who they are and who they love, I came to realize that I could do both:
I could run for office and be honest about who I am — so that’s exactly what I did.
When I became the first openly gay Senator elected in our nation’s history, I understood that I needed to use this extraordinary opportunity to make a difference in people's lives. From lowering prescription drug prices to protecting same-sex marriage through the Respect for Marriage Act, I’ve worked hard every day since to do just that.
That's why I ran for office in the first place — not to make history, but to make a difference. And folks like you supported me because you wanted to make a difference, too.
