First lady rallies Ohioans alongside president

[October 18, 2010]  COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) -- First lady Michelle Obama said Sunday that rallying voters to the polls is about more than just politics, but about whether the country can move forward at a time of frustration and cynicism.

She made the remarks Sunday evening at a Democratic rally at Ohio State University. She appeared alongside her husband, President Barack Obama, for their first joint campaign appearance since his 2008 presidential run.

Mrs. Obama said her first priority as "mom-in-chief" has been making sure their two daughters are adjusting to their new life in the White House. "I am like every parent I know," she said. "My children are the center of my world."

But like other parents, the first lady said, she's concerned about their future and what will be left for the next generation.

She said the president and his Democratic allies in Congress have already achieved some important victories, citing the health care overhaul and improved access to student aid and veterans care. She said those are not merely political victories, but "positive change that touches people's lives."

Mrs. Obama has recently hit the campaign trail to give Democrats a boost ahead of the Nov. 2 election.

Polls have shown the public has a higher opinion of the first lady than Obama.

[Associated Press; By ANN SANNER]

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