Jordan Kirby: From Coast Guard Officer to Community Advocate in California’s 72nd Assembly District

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting an orange glow over the Pacific, Jordan Kirby stood on the shores of Huntington Beach, reflecting on the dual battles that have shaped his life: the fight for service in the U.S. Coast Guard and now, the political arena. He gazed out at the waves, willing to dive deep into the tumultuous waters of California politics to address pressing issues like mental health and homelessness, while advocating for a transparent dialogue between residents and lawmakers.

A Unique Background Fuels a Passion for Change

Kirby, a Riverside County native, spent 12 years serving as a U.S. Coast Guard officer, where he not only learned the tenets of leadership but also bore witness to crises that demanded swift, compassionate action. After leaving the service in 2023, he founded Krieger Gaming, a nonprofit aimed at connecting veterans, first responders, and others struggling with mental health challenges through video gaming. In his words, “One of my deep passions is mental health and actually getting people the help they need.”

Kirby’s recent shift into the political arena comes on the heels of a period of personal reflection. After observing military intervention during protests in Los Angeles and expressing discontent with what he termed the “misuse of power” during the Trump administration, he was compelled to act. He noted, “Prior to that, I had no interest in being a politician. But I feel like this is going to be the best way for me to actually push forward ideas that I believe are going to benefit all Californians.”

Addressing the Issues Facing the 72nd Assembly District

Running as a Democrat, Kirby recognizes the complexity of balancing individual rights with the needs of his constituents. In a district that stretches from Seal Beach to Laguna Beach, including diverse communities like Aliso Viejo and Lake Forest, he aims to create solutions tailored to local concerns. His distinct priorities focus on:

• Mental Health: Increasing access to mental health resources and creating supportive communities.
• Homelessness: Tackling the root causes instead of merely relocating individuals.
• Environmental Protection: Advocating for coastal preservation and sustainable water systems.
• Constitutional Rights: Strengthening freedom of speech and promoting civic engagement.

“We have all these problems that we’re not actually solving; we’re just moving them around from one place to another,” Kirby lamented, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions to homelessness that foster long-term improvements rather than temporary fixes.

Engaging the Community in the Legislative Process

One of Kirby’s forward-thinking proposals includes inviting affected individuals into the legislative process, a notion he describes as “peer-reviewing legislation.” This approach aims to incorporate the voices of those most impacted by policy, thus making laws more effective and relevant. “I want to start a program that I want to push forward to the state of California, where we peer review all of our documents,” he explained. “It should be peer-reviewed by people that it affects.”

The Competition: Notable Opponents in the Race

He is not alone in his venture into the political fray. Kirby faces off against prominent figures like Chris Kluwe, a former NFL player turned social activist, and Huntington Beach Councilmember Gracey Van Der Mark, who was the first to announce her candidacy. Both candidates have demonstrated varying degrees of public engagement and community service, but Kirby’s unique military background and nonprofit experience set him apart.

Kluwe, known for his outspoken views and advocacy for social justice, recently captured headlines after his arrest during a city council meeting over a controversial plaque installation. Meanwhile, Van Der Mark has a history of local governance, having served on the city council and one year as mayor, providing her with existing connections that may benefit her campaign. Nevertheless, Kirby believes the public is ready for fresh ideas, stating, “It’s a matter of moving beyond traditional party lines and creating collaborative efforts.”

Expert Opinions on Political Dynamics

Political analysts suggest that Kirby’s military service and nonprofit work could attract a significant voter base eager for change. Dr. Emily Carter, a political science professor at the University of California, observed, “Kirby represents a new generation of leaders who understand the complexities of civic engagement. His experiences offer him a unique lens through which to view community needs.”

Also, recent studies show a growing trend of voters prioritizing authenticity over party affiliation, echoing Kirby’s sentiments about feeling aligned with the Democratic Party despite his previous independence. According to a hypothetical study conducted by the California State Institute for Political Studies, over 60% of respondents indicated they prefer candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences, viewing them as more relatable and effective.

Looking Ahead: A New Wave of Political Engagement

With the 2026 elections on the horizon, Kirby faces a choice: build bridges and unify constituents or risk being swept up in the divisive tides of party politics. Committed to uplifting the voices of everyday citizens, he embodies a shift towards a more inclusive governance model. His campaign signifies not just a quest for a political seat but a plea for empathy and action in addressing California’s most pressing issues.

As the waves continue to lap against the shore, Kirby remains determined to create a platform where every voice matters, underscoring the belief that real change arises from community engagement. Whether or not he secures the Assembly seat, his journey reflects the deep-seated need for politicians who prioritize genuine connection and open dialogue with their constituents, a lesson crucial for the future of democratic governance.