Hillary Clinton Campaigns in Fort Wayne, Indiana

Have you seen any pigs flying lately? If so, it's probably because presidential candidates are actually visiting Indiana. With a late primary (May), I can't recall any time in my 40+ years here that the candidates have paid attention to our state.

But this is not a typical presidential election year for the Democrats, and so I am happy to report that the candidates have been giving the Hoosier state its fair share of attention. Two weeks ago, former President Bill Clinton visited Fort Wayne's Grand Wayne Center.

Today, Hillary Clinton visited Fort Wayne's small and homey Sara's Family Restaurant. According to Fort Wayne's News-Sentinel, the restaurant was notified Wednesday night that Clinton would like to make a campaign appearance there. The staff flew into action, creating an "All American Wrap" inspired by Hillary (the News-Sentinel notes that Clinton's staff ordered 30 of these) and preparing for the visit.

The visit was all over the radio and TV news here in Fort Wayne today. By noon, wrist bands had all been given out for the 90 people who would be able to fit into the restaurant. Local television news reported that 500 people waited in the parking lot for a chance to view Clinton.

Hillary arrived 45 minutes late for her scheduled 5:45 appearance. She spoke briefly in the parking lot, on a small stage with a flag behind it, and then entered the restaurant where she spoke for an hour while seated at a table surrounded by customers and local officials. One woman interviewed by local Channel 21 said she had been chosen to sit at the table with Hillary because of the woman's union affiliation.

While seated, Clinton discussed her plans for job creation, health care, and relations with China. A memorable phrase was, "I don't quit - and neither does this country." So, apparently those who would like her to bow out to clear the way for Barack Obama will be waiting awhile longer.

At the conclusion of her discussion, Clinton rose to leave while promising to greet as many of the citizens as possible as she made her way out and on towards her next stop, Muncie.

Although I'm a conservative through and through, I have to admit that the attention Indiana is getting from the candidates is really gratifying. I enjoyed the excitement evident in our community today surrounding the Clinton visit.