Presidential candidate to visit ECU

On Thursday April 17, ECU will have the unique experience of hosting Democratic Presidential candidate Senator Barack Obama.

Obama will speak in Williams Arena at Minges Coliseum.

This event is free and open to the public, no ticket required, however, it is recommended to RSVP at my.barackobama.com/page/s/bogreenville.

Doors open at 4 p.m. and guests are encouraged to arrive early because the event is on a first come, first serve basis.

According to mybarackobama.com, "I'm proud that Senator Obama is the first candidate to hold a major event in eastern North Carolina this year," said Congressman G.K. Butterfield.

"It shows Obama's commitment to the eastern part of the state and to addressing the unique challenges that hardworking families in the region face. He is proving once again that he's a unifying leader who will speak for all of us, from the mountains to the coast."

A number of factors influenced Obama's trip to Greenville.

"The fact that ECU is the 3rd largest student body in North Carolina with a thriving student group in his support was one of the main reasons," said Nathan Lean, director of ECU Students for Barack Obama.

The trip stems from the recent release of Senator Obama's economic plan for North Carolina, an in-depth, 47-page book.

According to mybarackobama.com, the book includes proposals to eliminate unfair tax loopholes for companies that move North Carolina jobs overseas, relief for homeowners hit by the housing crisis and a middle class tax cut.

The economy is one of the main issues Obama will be addressing on Thursday. There is also hope that he will address issues as they relate to students.

On Tuesday April 15, an economic forum was held at Greenville's Obama for America Headquarters.

These forums were held across the state to learn about Obama's plan for the economy.

Attendees were able to read a copy of Senator Obama's plan, discuss it with others and listen to a briefing via conference call from one of Obama's senior economic advisors about his plan and how it will affect North Carolina.

The event was held on Tax Day to emphasize Obama's commitment to tax fairness for the middle class.

April 17 also kicks off one-stop early voting. For those not able to vote in the primary on May 6, this is the perfect alternative.

Unregistered, eligible voters can register at early voting sites with identification showing their name and current address.

This alternative is available until May 3.

This writer may be contacted at news@theeastcarolinian.com