Congresswoman-Elect Cheri Bustos launches listening tour - CBS4 - WHBF Quad Cities, IL-IA News Weather Sports

Congresswoman-Elect Cheri Bustos launches listening tour

By: Katie Jones

kjones@cbs4qc.com

 Fresh off an Election Day victory, Congresswoman Elect, Cheri Bustos, is wasting no time hopping back on the campaign trail. She wants to take voter's voices to Washington. Less than 24 hours after Cheri Bustos beat Republican incumbent Bobby Schilling for the seat in Illinois' 17th district, she was out talking to folks in Rock Island about what issues matter most.

"Healthcare is a big concern making sure that Medicare stays strong and is there for future generations, making sure social security is there for many generations." Bustos said.

Another big concern? Jobs and Cheri Bustos said in Congress she hopes to serve on the Armed Services Committee to make sure the Quad Cities' number one employer continues to grow.

"I'm not saying that we will keep the same level of defense spending as we spent during the Afghanistan and Iraqi Wars but we have to do everything we can do keep the Arsenal strong." Bustos said.

She said what set her apart from the opponent is her focus on the middle class and support of unions. She said her beliefs will help the people of the 17th district and the entire country move forward.

 "I'm here to represent the people of the 17th congressional district and if somebody didn't support me that's ok, I'm still here to represent them and we'll do that to the best of my ability." Bustos said.

Bustos took back control of the Congressional seat that was held by Democrats for nearly 30 years until Bobby Schilling took over in 2011. She'll be sworn in January 3rd.

So what's next for ousted Congressman Bobby Schilling?

"My family needs me back at home we want to do some franchising with my business and who knows where we're going to go," Schilling said.

Congressman Schilling said he's made a lot of sacrifices the past year and a half but says he's proud of what he's accomplished in Washington. He said for now he'll focus on his family and business but won't rule out any future political options.