Former president Clinton only hinted at the race and gender-laced rhetoric that got him into trouble in other states. Speaking to about 500 people at Tri-Cs eastside campus, Clinton acknowledged only that the competition would be unprecedented
Clinton: "I know you want to make history, in this election, but I hope you also want to build a better future for America."
Clinton spoke for more than 40 minutes walking across a stage in front of a huge American flag. He said Senator Clinton supports a moratorium on home foreclosures, an increase in science and technology education, a return to low interest student loans. And he said, as president, Hillary Clinton would eliminate tax breaks for companies that take jobs out of the country. She also supports a planned withdrawal from Iraq.
Clinton:: "She wants to say we're back, which means we are going to practice vigorous diplomacy with friend and foe alike, whenever possible, and military force will be used as an absolute last resort, not the other way around.”
Senator Clinton's plan to support research to get higher mileage out of hybrid struck a chord with 19-year-old former Bush supporter William Marcum. The Tri-C student said he'll vote for Hillary this time.
Jim Wilson has been trying to decide between Barack Obama and John Edwards. He said hearing Clinton's speech didn't turn it into a three-way decision.
Wilson: "You know, how you gonna sell this to me and you were in there for eight years… and now you're gonna come back with your wife and I know you're run the White House."
Ohio is important despite its late March 4 primary because the state is delegate rich. Bill Clinton won Ohio's 161 Democratic delegates twice, and is now hoping for the trifecta.
The state is also rich in fundraising dollars. Clinton followed his speech with a meeting with big-money supporters hosted by Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland and Ohio Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones.
Kymberli Hagelberg, 90.3.