In 2017, she published the memoir Shoot Like a Girl, which describes her service in Afghanistan.
She also sued the Air Force to remove the Combat Exclusion Policy.
In July 2017, she announced her candidacy for the Democratic nomination for United States House of Representatives to Texas's 31st congressional district.
After winning the nomination, she was defeated by 3% by incumbent Republican John Carter.
On April 23, 2019, Hegar announced her intention to challenge incumbent United States Senator John Cornyn.