Barack Obama is hoping to wrap up the Democratic nomination next Tuesday with wins in South Dakota and Montana. The Illinois senator is also reaching out to voters in Puerto Rico, who head to the polls Sunday, although --his rival, -->Hillary Rodham Clinton is expected to win the island primary.
Obama continues his outreach to blue-collar voters with a new TV ad debuting this week in Montana. In "Achieve" (subscription), which features excerpts from a May 19 speech in Montana, Obama addresses the economic challenges facing working-class Americans and asserts that his candidacy is "about you and your struggles, and helping you achieve the American dream." --"We can't afford to wait," he warns voters, but notes optimistically that the American people "are ready to turn the page and write a new chapter in American history."--> Referencing the chance to seal his victory on Tuesday, Obama concludes by saying, "On June 3rd, we will not just win Montana -- we're going to change this country, and we're going to change the world."
In a "Message" (subscription) to Puerto Ricans (which --the candidate-->was also recorded in Spanish), Obama empathizes with island residents and acknowledges that "Puerto Rico has suffered. You have a right to a better future." He lays out his plan for stimulating job growth, improving education and offering affordable health care options for the island's natives. "This is our moment," Obama says, speaking directly into the camera to deliver his final argument. "It would be an honor to have your vote and confidence."