.@FLOTUS thanks the American people: "Every day we have tried to make you proud." https://t.co/9gJY87hhON https://t.co/HerqU1dsdj
— ABC News Politics (@ABCPolitics) November 8, 2016
Michelle Obama on Monday night urged supporters to flock to the polls, arguing that if they turn out, Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton will win the White House.
{mosads}At a rally in Philadelphia outside of Independence Hall on the eve of the presidential election, the first lady argued that sitting on the sidelines or voting for a third-party candidate will deliver a victory to GOP nominee Donald Trump.
“If we get out and vote tomorrow, Hillary Clinton will win,” Obama said. “But if we stay home or play around with a protest vote, Hillary’s opponent will win. Period. End of story.”
“It’s important to understand presidential elections a breathtakingly close,” she continued. “Decided by five, 10, 15 votes per precinct.”
The first lady dedicated a portion of her speech to thanking the country for allowing her family to serve America over the past eight years.
“In many ways, speaking here tonight is perhaps the last, most important thing I can do for my country as first lady,” she said.
“Thank you for welcoming us into your communities with open hearts, for giving us a chance. Whether you agreed with our politics or not, every day you have inspired us with your courage and your decency.”
Obama made an impassioned plea for why Clinton is up to serving as commander in chief and drew sharp contrasts between the Democratic nominee and Trump. The first lady has been a breakout star on the campaign trail and one of Clinton’s strongest surrogates this cycle.
“We deserve a leader who will ensure that our daughters are safe and respected and that our sons understand that truly strong men are compassionate and kind,” she said. “We deserve a leader who sees the dignity and humanity in all of us and will encourage us to see the better angels in all of us.
“I believe with all my heart and soul that Hillary Clinton is that leader, and we need to do everything we can to get her elected president of the United States.”
Clinton’s final campaign appearance in Pennsylvania included an all-star lineup. In addition to the first lady, the nominee was joined by her husband, former President Bill Clinton, daughter Chelsea Clinton and President Obama. Bruce Springsteen and Bon Jovi performed before their remarks.
The former secretary of State has maintained a slim edge in the Democratic-leaning state. She holds a nearly 2-point lead in the Keystone State.