Michelle Obama praises Clinton at N.H. event

Michelle Obama: Getty Images PhotoMANCHESTER - During a roundtable discussion with working women, Michelle Obama commended the presidential campaign efforts of U.S. Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-N.Y.) at an event with U.S. senatorial candidate Jeanne Shaheen (D-Madbury) earlier today. "Because of Hillary Clinton's work, the issues of importance to women who work and the working family are front and center in this election," Obama told the crowd of 300 people.

Shaheen, a former New Hampshire governor, said that Obama's husband, U.S. Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.), should be elected president to help promote women issues. "We're here today because we want to make sure there's a better America for our grandchildren, that's why we need to elect Barack Obama to the White House."

Obama urged passage of an equal pay bill, increase funding of after school programs and expanding child medical leave. Shaheen said she would like to see an increase in the child tax credit and increase in health care for children.

Obama also gave Shaheen her full support. "We are behind her every step of the way and we know that she's going to make a terrific senator," Obama said.

The event was the first time Shaheen has campaigned with a member of the Obama campaign since her husband, Billy Shaheen, made controversial remarks about how Republicans would use Barack Obama's drug use history against him in the general campaign.

Jeanne Shaheen and Michelle Obama were joined on stage by Susan Handy of Auburn, Concord resident Katie Solter, Susan Martin from New Boston and Monica Zulauf of Somersworth.

"People who change diapers can help change the world," Solter said.

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