Q&A with Shattuck

1. Why are you running for this office, whether for re-election or election the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you, and if so, what? What will be your main priority?

I am running for State Representative because I heard the voters of the 49th district say it is time to make a change this year. What we have been trying in government for the past eight years is not working. From top to bottom, we need to reform the way our government is run, and I intend to serve the people of the 49th and their concerns. I have been talking to voters for months, and the issues that concern you will be my top priority - the economy, health care, and education. We can find solutions to the problems that affect our daily lives.

2. For incumbents and non-incumbents. If you are an incumbent, describe your main contributions. Tell us of important initiatives you've led. If you are not an incumbent, tell us what contributions you would make.

I hope to bring the concerns of the voters of the 49th district to Springfield with me, along with my experience as an advocate and development worker.

3. Under what circumstances, if any, would you support raising the state income or sales tax? Please explain.

I support a graduated income tax, because it would be more fair and reliable. Illinois is in a budget crisis, and we are far behind the curve as the only state of the top five economies in the United States without a graduated income tax. It's time that we get our act together and stop making promises that are unrealistic.

4. Do you support the expansion of gambling by adding slot machines at racetracks? Do you favor licensing and building new casinos? Please explain.

An overwhelming majority of Illinoisans are not in favor of expanding gambling or building new casinos. The state needs more reliable sources of revenue, but I don't think gambling expansion is the way to go.

5. Would you support giving voters the ability to recall elected officials?

We have terms so challengers may open up the dialogue on issues every 2-4 years. Recalls waste taxpayers' time and money, when we need to focus on voter turnout in election years so that everyone feels they are a part of the political process and have a stake in who they voted for.

6. Did you support the suburban tax increases that were used to keep the public transportation trains and buses running without cuts or fare increases?

We need to invest in all forms of transportation - including public transit, roads, and bike and walkways - and we need to do it in a way that is equitable to all regions.

7. If you are elected, will you vote for the current party leader of your legislative chamber? Why or why not?

I will vote for whoever is best qualified to serve the people through their role as party leader of the Illinois House of Representatives.

8. What do you think of the idea, widely circulated, of impeaching Gov. Blagojevich?

So far no charges have been brought forth for Governor Blagojevich that would be considered impeachable offenses, but if there were such charges then it would be the General Assembly's duty to the people of Illinois to investigate them.