SOUTH BEND — U.S. Sen. and Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama spoke at the St. Joseph County 4-H Fairgrounds Thursday.

The Illinois senator’s invitation-only appearance was for farmers, students and local activists from throughout the northern Indiana area.

His campaign called it a "Real Solutions for Rural America" town hall meeting. Obama used the opportunity to try and show that he is in touch with voters in rural areas and not just in the cities and suburbs.

There were about 100 people inside the Beef Club at the 4-H Fairgrounds. Many were Obama supporters, but others were undecided.

The audience listened as Obama talked about his agenda for rural America. He said he wants to provide incentives for young people to stay on family farms, promote alternative fuel sources such as bio-fuels, and invest in schools and other infrastructure in rural parts of the country to help it remain vital.

He said people in rural America reflect the best of American values.

"The fact that rural America is having such a difficult time indicates we've lost focus on our values and our ideals,” he told the crowd.

“I thought Senator Obama was very intelligent and reasonable in his comments,” said Gary Freymiller of Plymouth. “I appreciate his interaction with the crowd here today.”

After he left South Bend, Obama headed to North Liberty. He talked with people, drank a can of Bud and posed for pictures at the VFW hall. He discussed health care, the housing crisis and gas prices.

When he was asked about a possible vice presidential choice, he said he's not the nominee yet.

This is Obama's second visit to our area during the campaign. Sen. Clinton has been here four times, the most recent was Wednesday. She discussed gas prices with workers at Deluxe Sheet Metal in South Bend.

Observers say the race in Indiana is tight and the South Bend area could play a big role.

“I think of all the major cities in Indiana, South Bend is probably the most equally divided in voter preferences between Obama and Clinton," said Sean Savage, Saint Mary's political science profesor.

Clinton has been gaining support in recent polls in the state.

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