SpringfieldNewsSun.com

SPRINGFIELD, Ohio — Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland visited Wittenberg University's campus Saturday, Feb. 23, to voice his support for Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Hillary Clinton.

"We are in the midst of a very exciting presidential primary election season here in Ohio," said Strickland.

He said Ohio, Texas and Pennsylvania will be crucial to Clinton winning the Democratic ticket for president in the November election. Despite a string of Democratic primary victories by U.S. Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., Strickland said the race for the Democratic candidate is far from over.

"There are those who would like to dance on the political grave of Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton," said Strickland.

Strickland said his support of Clinton stems from personal relationships and the assistance he received from her while serving as a member of Congress. He also believes that the New York senator is "the person most qualified to provide the leadership that America needs."

Strickland spoke about Clinton's views on issues such as universal health care, youth education, stopping mortgage foreclosures and withdrawing American forces from the war in Iraq.

The key issue of universal health care surfaced again and again throughout his speech to the gathering of students and Springfield residents.

"It bothers me to think that the Democrats could nominate a candidate for president who would walk away from the effort to bring universal health care coverage to every citizen in our nation," said Strickland.

Strickland spoke to about 150 people at the Benham-Pence Student Center.

Former President Bill Clinton is scheduled to appear in Springfield at 9 p.m. today, Feb. 24, at the downtown YMCA.