Barbara Wheeler: Candidate Profile

Note: Answers provided have not been edited for grammar, misspellings or typos. In some instances, candidate claims that could not be immediately verified have been omitted. Jump to:BioKey IssuesQA Bio City: Crystal LakeWebsite: http://www.BarbaraWheeler64.comOffice sought: 64th District RepresentativeAge: 44Family: Married, five childrenOccupation: Director of Client ServicesEducation: Loyola University, BA Education National Louis University, MA Language and LiteracyCivic involvement: Volunteer at St. Thomas the Apostle Church,North Elementary, Assistant Cheerleading Coach Jr. WolvesElected offices held: McHenry County Board since 2002 Republican Precinct Committeemen since 2000Have you ever been arrested for or convicted of a crime? If yes, please explain: NoCandidate's Key Issues Key Issue 1 Jobs.Key Issue 2 Taxes.Key Issue 3 Education.Questions Answers How would you fix the state's pension gap? Should pension costs be shifted to suburban school districts? Why or why not? Should this issue be voted on in a lame-duck session? Why or why not? How can partisan gridlock be eased to solve the crisis?After decades of the state mismanaging pensions, I would support local control over state control. I would like to see real reform be voted on sooner than later. Partisan gridlock will only be eased if each member votes with the people of Illinois in mind, instead of the next election.How, specifically, would you cut the budget? What does Illinois need to do to fix its status as a "deadbeat state?" How will you vote on future gambling bills? What is your view of slots at racetracks? Casino expansion?I don't believe that gambling is the answer to the state's great budget problem. In fact, I think it is ludicrous to even suggest. I do think that the state, like many government entities, has duplicative services, wasteful spending, and useless programs. An honest audit of all state programs would reveal where the state could cut spending.What can you do specifically to help the economy in your district? How can you help create jobs in your district and statewide? What is your view of the tax breaks granted to companies like Motorola Mobility, Navistar and Sears?One of the biggest detriments to District 64 is our transportation. Traveling within the district can be time consuming and expensive. This creates a problem for existing businesses and may deter new business to other districts. The expansion of Route 53, the construction of the Algonquin Bypass, and improvements on Route 31, Route 59, etc. will all positively effect business in the district, create jobs and ultimately improve the economy.Do you favor limiting how much money party leaders can give candidates during an election? If elected, do you plan to vote for the current leader of your caucus? Why or why not? Do you support or oppose campaign contribution limits? Please explain.I will support Tom Cross. I support the current rules.Should gay marriage be legalized in Illinois? Should it be voted on in a lame-duck session as civil unions were? Should Illinois define life as beginning at conception? How would you vote on a concealed carry plan? Should the death penalty return?I believe marriage is a union between a man and a woman. I believe life begins at conception. I would vote for conceal carry legislation.