Heather Wilson is a Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate from New Mexico. According to the Washington Post she is a former Rhodes Scholar and Air Force pilot, and she served in the House of Representatives from 1998 to 2009.
In anticipation of the November 6 congressional elections, HuffPost Women caught up with her about who she is, why she's running and how to get involved with her campaign.
What's your favorite quality in another person?
A sense of humor.
What three words best describe you?
Mom. Leader. Hardworking.
What's your biggest flaw?
Excess humility. If it weren't for that, I'd probably be perfect. :)
What failure are you most grateful for?
Not being chosen as Superintendent of Albuquerque Public Schools in 1994. Some of the people who got to know my passion for children through those interviews recommended me to become Cabinet Secretary for Children, Youth and Families six months later. Sometimes, when doors close, windows open.
If you weren't you, who would you be?
A bush pilot and school teacher by day, writer by night.
If you could live anywhere, where would that be?
On a ranch in the mountains of New Mexico.
What woman do you most look up to?
Golda Meir.
What's the best advice you've ever been given?
Don't shame the family.
What's your joy trigger?
Being with children.
What is your favorite book?
Different ones at different stages in life. Right now? Probably Philip Yancey's "What's So Amazing About Grace."
What is your favorite album?
I like country music. (Who listens to albums anymore?). How about Garth Brooks, 'The Hits.'
Where did you have the best meal of your life?
When I was a young Air Force officer stationed in Europe, my boss and his wife took me to a restaurant in a small inn outside of Brussels, Belgium. Each of seven courses approached perfection and it ended with coffee and, perhaps, the most perfect piece of chocolate that has ever melted on my tongue. True story.
What is your favorite thing you've ever worn and why?
My grandmother's wedding ring, which I still wear as my own. She was a strong woman who immigrated to America, worked in a shoe factory, and raised two boys during the Depression. She told me wonderful stories and loved me very much.
What talent do you wish you had?
To be able to play the piano.
What quality or accomplishment do you want people to know you for?
Being a servant leader.
What makes you feel the most free?
Flying.
Why are you running?
I am running for the United States Senate because New Mexicans need an independent leader they can trust to change direction in Washington and turn this economy around.
What is the most important issue for women in this election?
Getting our economy growing again so that we have good jobs and opportunities for our children.
How can readers get involved in your campaign?
You can contribute on line at www.heatherwilson.com/donate. If you are in New Mexico, call us and come volunteer!