ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- 17th Congressional candidate, Cheri Bustos is a big proponent of voting early. Today, she met with seniors at Oleson plaza to try and encourage them to vote for her. Bustos also stressed the importance of protecting social security and Medicare. She got some help from Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky who says the outcome of this race will impact more than just our area.

“I believe this is the number one race in the country that we have to win. Because we need representation from this area in Congress of somebody who's going to care about Medicare and Social Security,” said Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D).

Don't forget to submit your questions for Bustos on our Facebook page. She'll be joining us live in studio on Wednesday, during a special candidate forum on the 23 News at 6. You can also submit your questions on Twitter, by using #cheribustos.

We'll hear from her opponent congressman Bobby Schilling on November 2nd.