INDIANAPOLIS - Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama spoke Wednesday in Indianapolis about why he will make the best president if he is elected.
Obama brought his "Change We Need" rally to the Indiana State Fairgrounds.
He was introduced by Sen. Evan Bayh, and Obama spoke for an hour to the thousands of Hoosiers who attended. He addressed topics including the economy, healthcare, job creation and education.Obama faces Republican presidential candidate John McCain in the Nov. 4 election.
"I'm here today to say there are better days ahead. I know people are anxious about the future, but this isn't a time for fear or panic, it is time for resolve and steady leadership," Obama said.
He said to bring about change, new direction and leadership in Washington will need to occur.
"It will take a real change in the current policies and politics of the last eight years, and that's why the decision you make in 27 days is so important," Obama said.
He said he is committed to an economy where new jobs are created and those who are unemployed are able to find work.
"If I am elected president, I will invest $15 billion a year in renewable sources of energy to create new clean energy jobs," Obama said.
He said he will give the middle class tax cuts and those who make less than $250,000 a year will not see their taxes increased.
"Nothing is more fundamental in our economy than a job. It is not just a paycheck, but a job provides a sense of dignity and self worth," Obama said.
"I know we can steer ourselves out of this crisis because this is the United States of America, a nation that has faced challenges that have been met, not by Democrats or Republicans, but by Americans."
He said he will fight for a healthcare plan so those who do not have health insurance will receive the same plan as members of Congress.
Obama also spoke about investing in education to give students the skills and knowledge they need to compete with other countries and make sure students are able to afford college.
"I will not allow other countries to out-teach us. It is time to provide Americans with a world-class education," Obama said.
Jeff Keough, Kosciusko County Democrat, and his wife Debbie, attended Wednesday's rally.
Jeff said he was impressed with the turnout to hear Obama speak.
"The atmosphere was electric and charged with excitement and anticipation," Jeff said.
