Hopeful Obama makes stop in Hickory
Media General News Services | April 30, 2008
Staff Written
Chants of "Yes, We Can!" followed by "O-ba-ma!" echoed from Hickory High School’s Craft Gymnasium Tuesday as supporters greeted Barack Obama.
The first presidential candidate to visit Hickory in more than a decade addressed an overflow and diverse crowd of more than 2,000. Making his second campaign stop of the day in North Carolina, Obama talked up his universal health care plan, tax cuts for the middle class and ideas to fix the struggling economy.
The Illinois senator took the stage at 4:42 p.m. to a prolonged standing ovation, one of at least 15 he received during the next hour. After thanking Hickory High Principal Kim Maddox and other school officials for their hospitality, Obama asked for a raise of hands of those who remained undecided voters. After a few hands rose, Obama said he would attempt to persuade them.
Obama explained why he sought the presidency and mentioned the economic problems facing the nation, including recent layoffs in the Hickory region such as at Henredon Furniture, Joan Fabrics and Delta Apparel.
Family incomes have declined while gasoline and education costs have skyrocketed.
"People feel they are working harder and harder just to get by," he said.
