President Clinton Rallies for Obama Part I
Now I must admit something. I am easily amused, so when a celebrity let alone a politician come to Virginia I am more than excited. That being said I was in no way prepared for the huge turnout for President Bill Clinton. It was borderline rock and roll concert status. I heard two girls behind me say, “This is like a packed club on Saturday night, except there is no alcohol.” We I arrived to the Virginia Commonwealth University Commons Plaza hundreds of people were waiting anxiously for President Clinton’s speech. Since he was scheduled to appear at 9:30 p.m. and it was now 7:30 p.m. I was a little anxious to say the least.
Surprisingly the President arrived an hour early. A nice surprise I may add. He was introduced by a familiar face Cassandra Ransome. Cassandra is a volunteer for the Obama Campaign whom I interviewed weeks earlier at the Democratic National Convention watch party. (See Obama’s Big Night) She began her introduction with a story of a financial struggle most students can understand, funding their college career with loans. As an out-of-state student Cassandra and her parents struggled with college loans to fund her education. The crowd roared as she spoke of how every student should have the right to an affordable college education if they desired it.
When President Clinton finally took the podium the crowd charged with energy. President Clinton echoed Cassandra’s sentiment of the need for affordable education. He also did something I wished politicians did more often. He explained in laymen’s terms the reason for the financial crisis. Although some students I spoke to still didn’t quite understand the financial crisis or the bailout package they’re feeling its effects. Several students spoke of changing their lifestyle habits and budget to make it through these difficult times.
Overall I’d say Clinton’s visit was a success. He’s in a very unique position; months ago he was campaigning for his wife. He informed Virginians why a vote for Barack Obama was a vote for more jobs and a healthier economy. Now he is rallying support for her once rival Barack Obama. He said both he and Hilary agree that Barack Obama is the best candidate to help us in foreign affairs, the financial crisis, and the world.
Some may beg to differ with that assessment. When President Clinton made his way down the Commons Plaza several McCain/Palin supporters stood on the opposite side of the street shouting, “No you can’t”. This is in response to Obama’s “Yes We Can” chant. The two sides were still warring back and forth when I headed back to the car. This is possibly a sign that not all Virginians are sold on going blue this November. I’m interested to see the turnout for Sarah Palin’s appearance on October 13th. She will visit Richmond in what is sure to be another rock star political event. Her appearance will be at the Richmond International Raceway and is set to have two musical performances. I’ll have the latest from the Palin visit in my next post.