The scene resembled a victory party more than a political rally.

As supporters entered, they were treated to a banquet of coffee, Doritos, and Pepsi products. The soft sounds of a mandolin flowed through the hall as Harmonious Whale performed for the waiting crowd. The awkward arrangement of the conference room quickly filled, forcing the event staff to open another section and relegate newcomers to an area where the podium was virtually invisible.

Before the candidate took the stage, a parade of politicians spoke. Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk was first. Lt. Governor Barbara Lawton followed, saying how fitting it was today is “President’s Day.” Gregory Meeks, a congressman from New York said America is “coming out of the Bushes.” Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin and state Senator John Erpenbach spoke and affirmed their support.

After the cavalcade of endorsements from her political entourage, it was Hillary Clinton’s time.

Stating that Wisconsin would decide today which politician to hire, Hillary presented her interview. Clinton took jabs at her competition, saying there is “difference between speeches and solutions.”

Clinton’s solution for education includes ending the “No Child Left Behind” program of the current administration. Clinton discussed making college more affordable by having the government loan money to students at lower interest rates than banks. She also proposed a system where graduates that teach or provide other community service could have up to $10,000 a year of college debt repaid.

Clinton’s health care solution provides the same options to the public as Congress, and involves regulations of the health care industry. Clinton cites her work with health care under her husband as a benefit. “When people talk about taking on the special interests, I remember taking them on in 1993 and 1994,” says Clinton. “They were spending $300 million tearing me down and attacking me; I considered it a badge of honor.”

Clinton’s foreign policy solution involves “intense diplomacy immediately.” She proposes relationships with Iran and other adversaries, saying “we cannot be a leader if no one is following.” Regarding Iraq, Clinton hopes to have a plan in place within 60 days to remove troops. “The Iraqi’s have to chart their own future,” says Clinton.

“If you’re ready for change, I’m ready to lead,” said Clinton to thunderous applause.

As the crowd disbursed, Tom Petty’s “American Girl” blared from the sound system.

Jason Dean

Contributing Writer/Editor

Jason Dean is a lot of things, and some are even good. He's a freelance writer and web designer in Madison. His writing has been published or linked to by various sources, including Isthmus, The Capital Times, 77 Square, Slashdot, and CNN. More of his ramblings can be found on his website,  Twitter feed or his Facebook fan page.