Española Mayor Joseph Maestas claimed the city’s population doubled Sept. 18 when visitors came from all over the state to see Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama (D-IL) speak on the Plaza.
Whatever the true number of visitors was that descended on Española, there was no doubting their enthusiasm for Obama.
Cheers of “Obama!” and “Si, se puede!” rang out during breaks between songs played over the PA system. The crowd of thousands waited through long lines, most standing in the sun for hours — but when Obama actually appeared, impatience turned to excitement in a hurry. Carlos Lopez, of Las Vegas, didn’t hesitate when asked if it was worth the wait.
“I loved it,” he said.
Lopez said he and his five brothers are all veterans, and his son (who was raised in Española) is currently serving in the Marine Corps in Iraq. He said he thinks Obama is the right choice for veterans’ issues, especially when it comes to caring for American soldiers when they return home. He referenced Republican presidential candidate Sen. John McCain’s (R-AZ) opposition to the latest GI Bill and Obama’s ideas about expanding the federal Department of Veterans Affairs as reasons he supports Obama.
“Veteran issues are a big thing to me,” he said. “If America wants to be free, we’ve gotta support the guys who help make it free.”
Dane Hult, who lives south of Socorro, and Willie Salas, of Las Vegas, attended the rally and said they are veterans who think Obama is the best candidate to address veterans’ issues.
“He has fought very hard for the vets,” Hult said.
Governor Bill Richardson introduced Obama, back-handedly praising Rio Arriba County for being able to turn out 102 percent of the vote for Obama and saying state elections look better for Democrats on election night, after the County sends its totals in late.
Before his speech, Obama thanked officials including Richardson, Lieutenant Governor Diane Denish, House Speaker Ben Lujan and his son state Public Regulation Commissioner Ben Ray Lujan, Congressman and Senatorial candidate Tom Udall and Maestas.
During the speech, Obama largely focused on the economy. He said America is facing “the most serious financial crisis in a generation,” and he outlined some of his plans to address predatory lending practices and assist homeowners. He also spoke briefly about expanding health care and giving more people the opportunity to go to college.
But his biggest applause-getters came from his criticisms of McCain. He said McCain is too cozy with the Republican party to really be a departure from the current leadership, and he accused his opponent of stealing his lines when he talks about bringing change to Washington.
“John McCain can’t decide whether he’s Barry Goldwater or Dennis Kucinich!” Obama said to a loud reaction from the crowd.
A group from Dixon was excited to hear Obama speak live for the first time.
“He’s a human being, not a politician,” Rachel Moore said.
Her friend Abby Mouer was more issue-oriented in her support for Obama.
“Solar, solar, solar!” she said.
Cipie Maez, of Canjilon, said he may volunteer for Obama’s campaign. He said Obama’s candidacy is historic, and the country needs a change.
“We’re tired of Bush,” he said.
Some in the audience thought Obama needs to revise his message, however. Roger Mignon, of Abiquiú, said Obama’s rhetoric has been more right-leaning lately. Mignon said he thinks Obama is taming his language because of what his political advisors have told him.
“He’s gotta start talking about the working class. He’s gotta start talking about the poor,” he said.
Michael Allen, of Farmington, said he works for a drilling company. He said Obama will have trouble there if he doesn’t pay attention to it and learn about the issues that affect the area.
“He needs to come out there,” he said. “If he does that, he’ll win.”