Clinton wants college more accessible

Stuart Steers, Rocky Mountain News

Published July 24, 2006 at midnight

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U.S. Sen. Hillary Clinton today debuted a program to dramatically boost the number of Americans going to college before a crowd of cheering Democrats in Denver.

Clinton unveiled the "American Dream Initiative" at the annual meeting of the Democratic Leadership Council at the Hyatt Regency Hotel. More than 300 elected officials from around the country have gathered for the meeting.

Clinton, widely considered to be a possible presidential candidate for the Democrats in 2008, called for dramatically boosting the number of Americans in college by using tax credits and grants to make college more affordable. She said America is falling behind other countries in the number of students going to college.

Clinton said the middle class is struggling under Republican economic policies.

"Democrats can be the change agents our country needs," Clinton said. "The simple fact is the American middle class is the core of America's greatness."

In addition to making college more affordable, Clinton called for expanding the number of Americans with retirement savings accounts and health insurance. She said education, health care, and a secure retirement are fundamental to a middle-class way of life.

Clinton was surrounded by dozens of well-wishers after her speech, making it clear she has become a major star within the party.

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