SOUTH BEND — It’s Dyngus Day and that means it's time for politics and Polish sausage. At the West Side Democratic Club in South Bend, hundreds of people waited all morning for the arrival of former President Bill Clinton.

Around the Club early Monday morning, people were hoping to get tickets so they could hear the former president speak.

The capacity of the building is 250 people, according to the fire marshal. Security crews tried to keep the club as close to capacity as possible.

Former Indiana Gov. Joe Kernan began the festivities by introducing former Maryland Lt. Gov. Kathleen Kennedy Townsend. She led the crowd in a Polish song and then told them why she supports Hillary Clinton's campaign for president.

The former president and Chelsea Clinton arrived just after noon. President Clinton began speaking around 12:15 p.m.

President Clinton said his wife, Sen. Hillary Clinton, is the best person to confront problems facing America. Clinton spoke especially of the need to change the health care system in the United States. When he asked the crowd how many knew someone without health care, nearly everyone raised their hand.

"This is the only wealthy country on Earth where people would ask that question during an election," Clinton said.

Hundreds outside listened to his speech on speakers mounted outside the building. But even some people who bought tickets in advance weren't able to get inside because of the fire code enforcement.

"We probably won't [get inside] but it's here, we made it, it's OK. I don't have a problem with that at all," said Clinton supporter Mike Lenyo, outside the Club. "It's just part of the day and I'm having a good time."

Stay with WSBT.com for Dyngus Day updates throughout the day, and watch LIVE streaming video of former President Clinton's speeches in South Bend and Rochester.

The South Bend Tribune contributed to this report.