Answer: Twenty-five percent for Social Security. We should use today 's surplus to, once and for all, take the Social Security system out of temporary politics and into permanent solvency. To ensure that Social Security exists when the post-boomer generation retires in 2035, I support allowing workers to set aside part of their payroll taxes for individual savings accounts. Today 's program pays only a 2 percent return. Under an improved ''lockbox '' system, conservative returns would ensure sufficient balances in the trust fund.

Thirty percent for Medicare. Americans shouldn 't lose their rights just because they turn 65. Seniors deserve the same high-quality, affordable health care options that members of Congress and federal employees receive, including prescription drug coverage. The bipartisan task force plan would provide greater coverage options for all seniors, and allow an ''open season '' every November to change health care plans if desired.

Forty-five percent for tax cuts deficit reduction. Working with both sides of the aisle, I will support a consensus agreement that includes paying off our debt and eliminating the marriage tax penalty. I don 't believe the government should penalize a young couple just because they decide to get married. It 's wrong and it costs 60,000 families in the 1st District an average of $471 a year.

In all of these issues, I will always put the interests of my constituents first, over the influence of partisan politics and special interests. My name is Pete Abair, and my campaign slogan is ''People not politics. ''