A Republican, he is a motivational speaker, veteran service officer, and a contributor on KFXN-FM radio during the "Power Trip Morning Show.

[3] On May 21, 2011, he was one of four Republicans who dissented against the caucus majority by voting against sending a constitutional ban on same-sex marriage to a 2012 referendum; the bill passed, 70–62.

[4] Kriesel served in the Minnesota Army National Guard from 1998 to 2008, rising to the level of staff sergeant.

Senator Norm Coleman's Washington D.C. office in 2007, addressing constituent concerns and military issues.

He also co-authored, with writer Jim Kosmo, Still Standing, an autobiography that details his military career, recovery from his combat injuries and life since.