Both sides gather for Obama stop

ASHWAUBENON - The weather had an impact on Thursday’s visit by President Barack Obama. Some people spent hours waiting in the cold ahead of the speech.

An estimated 2,600 people attended the campaign stop, according to De Pere Fire Rescue Chief Robert Kiser.

With temperatures in the thirties, people lined up as far as the eye could see.

“We've been here since 5:30 this morning. There's a gentleman here at 3:00,” said Diane Kuse, an Obama supporter.

Single parent and student Carli Wilke drove up from Oshkosh. She says education and women's issues top her agenda.

“We have a right to our freedoms and our right as women. I don't want to lose that, and that's really an important thing,” said Wilke, an Obama supporter.

Christi Skrinska is a registered nurse.

“Health care costs are rising, and people need to come up with money somewhere. They shouldn't be struggling to put food on the table, and pay a hospital bill at the same time,” said Skrinska, an Obama supporter.

The election is Tuesday.

“The polls look very positive. As of yesterday, he took a bigger lead in the state, but he's not taking that for granted he's here,” said Patti Chaivre, an Obama supporter.

But not everyone is happy Obama is here. A small group of protesters gathered nearby.

“This is serious,” said Jim Sievert, a Romney supporter.

Sievert says the election boils down to one thing, smaller government.

“They want their freedom, they don't want to be told what to do, when they have to do it, or, denied this or that,” he said.

As the president wrapped up his speech, most can agree the Badger State will pay a lead role right up to Election Day.

“Both candidates are here. Their support staff is here. Everybody's coming into Wisconsin. It's a pretty major swing state. I don't think there's any doubt,” said Errin Kolden, a Romney supporter.

“We're going to make the difference. I think the people in Wisconsin, the people of Northeast Wisconsin are really going to make a difference when it comes to reelecting the president,” said John Nusbaum, an Obama supporter.