single mother, went to John Jay High School and then Boston University on an Air Force ROTC scholarship.

But the road wasn't without its bumps.

Trouble in junior high was a fork in that road and a choice that would change Ortiz Jones’ life.

"I learned then that if you’re not a little bit uncomfortable (then) you’re probably not learning anything, and the importance of giving back to a community that's given me so much," Ortiz Jones said. "That's what this race is all about."

It’s a willingness to challenge the "status quo" that Ortiz Jones said she demonstrated in school, in college, in the Air Force, and in life.

But as a member of the LGBTQ community, Ortiz Jones served during "don't ask, don't tell," a time she admits her outspoken naturewas tested.

"I knew there were some sacrifices that I was going to have to make. But you know, I have a long record of putting country above everything else, and now more than ever it's important to do that," Ortiz Jones said.

Hers is a run for office that's getting national attention. She has been on CNN and others, Ortiz Jones said this run is all about her roots.

"I’ve gone from reduced lunch to the Executive Office of the President. This is a special country (and) it's always reinforced to my younger sister and I," Ortiz Jones said.

"My sister still serves, she's in the Navy now, and we were going to have to give back to a country that's given us so much," she said.

Ortiz Jones also talked about