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Barack Obama Rally

Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama is “convinced that we can steer ourselves out of this crisis.” This statement, made in the first few minutes of Friday's campaign rally in Roanoke, drew cheers from the audience of more than 8,000.

Above all, Obama encouraged Americans to believe and not lose hope, saying that “America can meet this moment” as it has done on many previous occasions.

But getting ourselves out of this crisis requires drastic change, and Obama spent most of his 39-minute speech outlining changes he would make if he were elected. He says these changes will not only bring us out of the economic crisis, but will also ensure that no crisis of the kind happens again.

Obama says he will lower taxes for 95% of the middle class, which includes the vast majority of small businesses throughout the United States. According to Obama, small businesses account for two-thirds of the nation's jobs.

He also plans to “fix the broken health-care system” by making health-care available and accessible to those who don't have it and lowering the premiums of those who do have it.

Knowing these changes will take time, he also proposed four steps he believes will bring more immediate relief to those who are struggling.

First, Obama proposed a new jobs tax credit, which would give companies tax credits for every employee they hire in the next two years.

He also plans to eliminate capital gains taxes for investing in small businesses, offering incentives to investors instead. Small businesses will also have an easier time securing loans needed for payroll and inventory.

Third, Obama will give responsible homeowners a 3-month moratorium on foreclosure.

Finally, Obama also plans to help states, like Virginia, that are facing budget short-falls. To do this, he will create a $25 billion fund to help states and local governments pay for public service jobs, education and health-care. He hopes to save 1 million jobs with a new Jobs and Growth Fund as well.

To end the speech, Obama solicited one last call for votes, saying, “if you want real change [...] give me your vote on November 4th. [...T]hen you and I - together - will change this country and change this world.”