Hillary Unveils Plan for Higher Education at Plymouth State University

Senator Hillary Clinton proposed her plan to make colleges affordable for America’s families, in a packed event at Plymouth State University on October 11, 2007.

She addressed the crowd of students, faculty and staff, and community members touting that "One of the keys to a strong and confident America is a system of higher education that is accessible to all who are motivated to seek it out," said Clinton, adding that she understands how much more difficult it is now to begin, continue, and finish a college education than it was 20 years ago.

She outlined seven points in which she would be able to aid American families:

• Lowering the cost of college through a $3,500 tuition tax credit, enough to cover more than 50% of the cost of tuition at the average public institution for many families
• Increasing the Pell Grant
• Strengthen Community College
• Create a Graduation Fund to Increase Graduation rates
• Providing additional aid for people who do public service
• Simplifying student aid
• Providing clear information about the real cost of college well in advance to help families

“When it comes to higher education – we shouldn’t be playing catch-up with the world – we should be leading it. Because the skills and knowledge of our workforce will determine whether America can compete and win in the global economy,” Clinton said.

This speech was a set part from Barack Obama’s speech two days prior at Plymouth State University, Senator Clinton identified a problem and went out and gave examples how she would fix the problems that she identified. Whereas her opponent, gave a general speech on how he would change things, but then gave no examples or define plans on how he would do so.

There was also a clear difference in their ability to answer hard questions, where as Obama searched for words as he stumbled to complete thoughts, Clinton answered them with a laser targeted wit and masterful answers and justification for her thoughts.

"Change is just a word if you don't have the strength and experience to make it happen," she said, adding later that her experience on both sides of Pennsylvania Avenue make her the strongest candidate for president in what she admitted was a very strong field.

"It's a good problem to have so many candidates," she said, adding that she knows how the senate works and her 35 years in a range of professions that include both public- and private-sector experience qualify her to be president.

"I admit I'm thrilled at the prospect of being the first woman president," she said candidly. "But I'm not running because I'm a woman. I'm running because I'm the best-qualified person to do the job."