“America is the only high income nation without a paid family leave program. This means that if you or a family member gets sick, there is no guarantee that you can take the time you need to take care of yourself or your loved one, leaving already vulnerable families in the position of making hard decisions in cases of illness.”

American lawyer and politician

Kirsten Elizabeth Gillibrand is an American lawyer and politician, born in 1966, who has served as the junior United States senator from New York since 2009. A Democrat, she previously served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2007 to 2009. Gillibrand is known for her work in national politics, first in the House and then in the Senate, where she has represented New York since 2009. Her public voice is tied to her role as a lawmaker and to the issues that come with that office.