John Edwards Sways Chattanooga Voters

It is the Tennessee Valley's first up close look at the 2008 presidential campaign. Democratic candidate John Edwards made a stop in Chattanooga Monday. He lost big in South Carolina over the weekend, and he's hoping to make up ground in Tennessee.

Announcer says, "Welcome Mr. John Edwards." Coming out to a crowded room of nearly 350 people at the IBEW 175, John Edwards wastes no time once he takes center stage.

Edwards says, "The truth is Washington is out of touch of what's happening in the real world."

In the crowd, supporters like retired electrician Amos Callihan. "I think he represents the middle and lower class working people and is a good represenative of the Democratic party."

Others, like Bobby Long are undecided. "I'm not exactly 100 percent sure." Maxine Cousin says, "I'm really torn."

Cousin says she came to become better informed. She says while rival Barack Obama inspires her, she's swayed by Edwards when it comes to his stance on poverty.

Edwards tells the crowd, "How about instead of tax breaks for the richest Americans and tax breaks for the biggest corporations we actually give tax breaks for working, middle class familes and to lower income families to help you save."

Edwards also touches on global warming, and the war in Iraq. "The first year that I'm President of the United States, we will end this mess of a war in Iraq."

But it's education that UTC student Elizabeth James Tallman wants to hear more of. "I think that's the most important thing, and I'm not sure which candidate has the strongest platform on that."

Edwards touches on education during his speech. He says, "Here's my idea. It's called 'College for Everyone.' If you're willing to work while you're in college, at least 10 hours a week, America pays your tuition and books at a state university or community college."

Edwards has said the more voters who hear from him, the more supporters he'll have. Tallman says his 20 minute speech gained her support. "I do think that I've changed my mind." Reporter asks, "Are you going to vote for Edwards?" Tallman says, "Yes I am."

But Cousin still doesn't know. And the clock is ticking. Edwards has until February 8 to sway her vote.

Cousin says of Edwards speech, "I was touched, I don't know yet, but don't count me out."