OSKALOOSA —
Rep. Dave Loebsack said Tuesday issues like Medicare and Social Security are critical parts of the American middle class, telling an Oskaloosa audience he will do everything he can to defend them.
Loebsack was among the speakers who took the stage prior to President Barack Obama, who made his first visit to Oskaloosa as president.
A large crowd filled seats at the Nelson Pioneer Farm for the outdoor campaign rally. They were shuttled from Oskaloosa High School in a bid to control traffic at the site.
Loebsack tied defense of programs like Medicare and Social Security to defense of the middle class, a theme pushed by the Obama campaign. Obama has criticized Republican Mitt Romney as promoting the interests of the rich at the expense of the less wealthy.
"We wouldn't have our democracy without the middle class," Loebsack said.
Loebsack pointed to his background and said he was able to improve his standing in life due to opportunities in danger of disappearing.
"I will fight with every fiber of my being and I know President Obama will too," Loebsack said.
CNHI/Southeast Iowa
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Congressman Dave Loebsack spoke prior to President Barack Obama's arrival in Oskaloosa on Tuesday.
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