I have some central issues that really drive my work, including gang prevention, public safety, Port [of Los Angeles] security, community resources and improved public works, and cleaning the air at the Port. The elephant habitat issue was a city issue but was not spearheaded by my office. But as City Council members, we become involved in all sorts of issues brought to the table by our fellow members. 

With regard to the conflict in Gaza, I took a trip to Israel over a year ago that was based on my wanting to learn from the best about security measures, so that I could take my findings back and share them with the Port of Los Angeles. 

Visiting Sderot, which is the area that's really borne the brunt of Hamas' rocket attacks, really touched me and made me understand how sad and infuriating the situation has been for the people of Israel. 

But you could say that most of the issues I become involved with are typically related to my constituents' overall priorities, or have somehow been inspired by those priorities. 

Why did you decide to take a public stance in support of Israel in the Gaza conflict? 

I visited Israel a little over a year ago and saw first-hand the destruction being done by Hamas' rocket firings. These attacks on the Israeli people were completely unprovoked and unjust. During the conflict, Hamas used Palestinian civilians as human shields against Israeli retaliation. Hamas is a terrorist organization whose actions against the Israelis and their own Palestinian brethren cannot be tolerated. That is why I have spoken out. 

In what ways do you think Obama's new administration will affect the city of Los Angeles? 

I am hoping that the Obama administration will have a positive affect by granting us the stimulus money that we need for job creation, public works and cleaning up the environment in our city. Not only that, I think that his federal stimulus package will be good for the whole country, and will bring up everyone who is struggling throughout the United States, including Los Angeles. 

Speaking of the stimulus package, you've requested a billion dollars for the Los Angeles International Airport improvement project. Why LAX over other projects right now? 

LAX is the gateway to Los Angeles and it needs some major updates to its infrastructure, including its utilities and the Crossfield Taxiway. Of course, this redevelopment will create much-needed jobs in our city. It will also make our airport safer. Not only that, it will draw more visitors to our city. Right now, travelers have a choice of many different airports, and if LAX isn't up to par, they will go elsewhere. Tourism is the second-largest industry in Los Angeles -- for every 4 percent increase in tourism, we get $12 million dollars into the general fund. We need to attract those tourists, and be ready to give them a proper welcome when they get here. 

What are the most important things Angelenos need to understand about the economic downturn? What resources are there? 

The most important thing Angelenos need to understand is that, though times are very difficult, there is help out there, and they should never lose hope. Residents can access many of the resources that the city has to offer by dialing 3-1-1. From there, they can be connected to counseling hotlines, foreclosure assistance lines and other services. The city's workforce investment board is a great resource for job training and assistance. 

What public figure inspires you the most? 

The reason I am a public official today is because I was inspired by my father, Kenny Hahn. At 26, he was the youngest person ever to become elected to Los Angeles City Council. He later became a county supervisor, and served the people of Los Angeles for over 40 years. My father taught me that with opportunities come responsibilities. The fact that I was fortunate enough to be educated and was able to have so many valuable experiences made me realize that I wanted to use that for the good of the people. 

My brother, Jim Hahn, who was recently appointed as a Los Angeles County Superior Court judge, has also been a great inspiration to me. He is the only person to have ever held the three offices of city attorney, controller and mayor of Los Angeles. He has always embodied the spirit of public service, and pushed me to fulfill my potential. 

What would you say are the most common misperceptions about LA? What's the truth?
 

I think the fact that Los Angeles is the home of Hollywood and the movie industry has brought a lot of misconceptions to people all over the world. On the one hand, people outside of L.A. seem to think that women run around in red bikinis all the time; on the other hand, I think a lot of people have this perception of Los Angeles as this rough-and-tumble, dangerous city. 

Of course, we do have female lifeguards at some of our beaches, and we do have crime on some of our streets. But I think this city is so much more than all of that. Los Angeles is a vibrant city where dozens of languages are spoken, and each neighborhood has its own sense of identity. We've got major universities, think tanks, and some of the most talented and creative minds in the country. We have a gorgeous and expansive coastline, multiple mountain ranges, great restaurants, museums and nightlife. Not to mention, the best weather on the planet. Obviously, I love Los Angeles.