"Over the course of a few hours, the failure to pass the economic rescue plan in Washington led to the single largest decline of the stock market in two decades. Over one trillion dollars of wealth was lost by the time the markets closed on Monday. But while the decline of the stock market is devastating, the consequences of the credit crisis that caused it will be even worse if we do not act and act immediately." -- Barack Obama
Twelve thousand folks crowded into the quad at the University of Nevada in Reno (according to Thomas P. Lean, the Assistant Director of Facilities Operations) but they were not in a celebratory mood. They were looking for leadership and guidance.
In front of the beautiful red-brick buildings on the campus quad, Barack called for courage and confidence, and explained the need for quick action:
"If we do not act, it will be harder for you to get a mortgage for your home or the loans you need to go to college or a loan you need to buy a car to get to work. What it means is that businesses won't be able to get the loans they need to open new factories, or hire more workers, or make payroll for the workers they have. What it means is that thousands of businesses could close around the country. Millions of jobs could be lost. A long and painful recession could follow.
...This is one of those defining moments when the American people are looking to Washington for leadership. It is not a time for politics. It is not a time for partisanship. It is not a time to figure out how to take credit or where to lay blame. It is not a time for politicians to concern themselves with the next election. It is a time for all of us to concern ourselves with the future of the country we love. This is a time for action."
See the speech here:
Arun Chaudhary
September 30th, 2008
Reno, Nevada
As Jon Carson explained earlier, in eight states, this election is already underway. The resources we have on hand for October will directly impact where, and how, we're able to compete.
From the beginning, this campaign has been fueled by ordinary people giving when and how they can. The reporting deadline for September is tonight at midnight. But more importantly, there are only 35 days left before polls close. There is no better time to make a donation, to buy a yard sign or even a t-shirt to show your support over the final few days.
Your support has never been more important than right now.
