10 Questions for Jan Schakowsky, Illinois 9th District House Candidate

Editor's note: AOL News asked U.S. House and Senate candidates to answer questions about themselves and their views on two big issues.

Jan Schakowsky is the Democratic candidate for Illinois' 9th Congressional District.

The Fun Stuff

1) Everyone is angry with politicians in Washington. Why do you want to be one of them?

It is a privilege to be one of 535 Americans who actually gets to make decisions that so significantly affect the lives of all Americans. Besides, I don't just yell at the TV, I get to yell on TV.

2) What's the one thing you couldn't live without?

My dogs, Buddy and Lucky.

3) What do you do when you need some "me" time?

I go walking on Lake Michigan's beaches.

4) How long can you go without checking your BlackBerry?

I managed an entire week on a wilderness vacation this summer. It was heaven.

5) What's your dream car?

My dream car is an electric station wagon with plenty of room for dogs and grandchildren.

6) If you could choose, what one super power would you like to have?

I'd like to be able to fly -- it would save on emissions and commuting time.

7) What's the funniest thing that's happened to you while campaigning?

The most hilarious thing that has happened this season was during an interview on a foreign language radio show. A caller demanded to know -- in a foreign language -- why I didn't support making English the only official language.

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8) Are you a dog person or a cat person?

I have had both at the same time. As a politician I'm supposed to say I've got no preference, but I'm really more of a dog person than a cat person.

The Serious Stuff

9) In 50 words or less, what's the first thing the new Congress should do to improve the economy?

Pass the Local Jobs for America Act, which would create and save 1 million essential state and municipal jobs -- like teachers, firefighters and police -- giving the economy another jolt. Simultaneously, we must pass the Democrats' Make It in America Agenda and eliminate incentives for companies that send American jobs overseas.

10) In 50 words or less, what's the biggest threat facing the country today?

Our struggling economy. Right now the federal government needs to drive unemployment down by making investments that create jobs and restore economic prosperity. Over the long-term, we need to become leaders in a new clean energy economy, invest in education and reduce health care costs by rewarding value and efficiency.