Olivia Allen ’10 and Casey Richardson ’10
Web Features Editor and Staff Writer

Not even “City of Blinding Lights” emanating loudly from the speakers could suppress the energetic supporters of presidential candidate Barack Obama in a rally in Hartford, Conn., February 4, 2008.

Obama was greeted by approximately 17,000 supporters packed into the Hartford Civic Center including members from the Staples community such as former Staples valedictorian Mariel Goddu.

Sharing the stage with Obama was Mass. Senator Ted Kennedy, Caroline Kennedy, Conn., congressman of the fifth district Conn., Chris Murphy, and third district congresswomen Rosa DeLauros.

Kennedy who first showed her support for Obama in a “New York Times” editorial compared Obama to her father, President John F. Kennedy.

“I have never had a president who inspired me the way people tell me that my father inspired them. But for the first time, I believe I have found the man who could be that president – not just for me, but for a new generation of Americans,” said Kennedy.

When addressing the crowed, one issue Obama focused on was healthcare.

“If you are one of the 45 million Americans who don’t have health insurance, you will have it after this plan becomes law,” said Obama

Like his slogan, “a change you can believe in,” Obama addressed Americans that are, “desperate for change” promising that it will take place immediately if elected.

“The era of Scooter Libby justice and Karl Rove politics will finally be over,” said Obama.

Obama’s undeniable charisma and eloquence lead him to victory in Connecticut and inspired Connecticut citizens such as Jason Mercier.

“There has never been such a sense of civic engagement in my lifetime, and it was just amazing to be a part of.”