After growing concerned about the effects of the North American Free Trade Agreement on the textile industry, he resigned his job at the hosiery plant in 2001 and took a job as a social studies teacher at his former high school, East Montgomery High School.

In October 2006, Kissell ran for the Democratic nomination in the 8th District and won a four-way primary with 53 percent of the vote.

[1] In the 2006 elections, Kissell faced four-term Republican Robin Hayes, who had surprised many pundits with his ability to hold onto what was thought to be a marginally Democratic district.

The outcome of the November 2006 general election was in doubt for several weeks, as recounts had to be conducted due to the close margin.

[9] On February 13, 2009, Dan Eggen and Ellen Nakashima of the Washington Post wrote that the compromise stimulus bill included a provision introduced by Kissell that would; "require the Transportation Security Administration to purchase uniforms manufactured in the United States; most TSA clothing is currently assembled in Mexico and Honduras from U.S.-made fabric.

[13] His vote angered some constituents in his district; the Washington Post noted that a year after his election, "the euphoria has given way to second thoughts at best and outright rebellion at worst.

"[14] Michael Lawson, an African-American Democratic leader from his constituency, stated the people believed they would receive one outcome and got another with his vote on health care.