The ‘Hillclimbers’ cheer on Hillary Clinton

Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, high off her win in Nevada, stopped by Texas Southern University to close the fundraiser “Get out the Vote” Saturday, Feb. 20. Standing in front of a packed audience, Clinton shared her political views about the importance of voting and her hopes to secure the public’s vote in the process.

“…through the hopes and the heartaches of hardworking people across America, it’s clear there is so much more we have to do,” Clinton said, “We believe America’s tomorrows can be greater than our yesterdays.”

The event, which encouraged supporters to vote in the March 1 primary, included Chinese dragon dancers, mariachi bands and a gospel choir to warm up the crowd. Prominent local officials then took turns in front of the microphone to express why they felt Clinton was the best choice for president.

“As a father of two grown women, I’m excited Hillary wants equal pay for women,” said State Sen. John Whitmire.

U.S. Rep. Shelia Jackson Lee referred to Clinton as a lady with a plan. Lee dubbed all of the people there “Hillclimbers.”

Clinton, who told the audience that she is the only candidate fighting for historic African-American colleges and the African-American community, has the support of Lee and State Sen. Rodney Ellis.

“I’m glad a woman will be in the White House,” Ellis said. “Hillary has been fighting for African communities and every community since she started her career.”

U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary, and rumored vice presidential contender, Julian Castro referenced NASA, or rather the famous line from the film “Apollo 13” in his speech supporting Clinton.

“Houston, we have a solution: Hillary Clinton,” Castro said.

At one point, Clinton spoke directly to the middle class families about the hardships they are currently facing.

“Imagine a tomorrow where every child in every ZIP code gets the education he or she needs and deserves,” Clinton said. “Let’s imagine a tomorrow where every parent can have a good job and every grandparent can enjoy a secure retirement.”

Most people who attended were already Clinton supporters, however some still hadn’t quite made up their mind.

“I am currently undecided, but her coming and making the effort really shows she is for the people, and that is influencing my vote,” said Danielle Garcia, law student at Thurgood Marshall School of Law.

Texas Southern University’s gymnasium stayed full the entire night even though Clinton’s appearance was pushed back an hour. Her supporters cheered till the very end.

Watch The Signal reporter Priscilla Juarez’s video about the event here!