“She would end the war today if she could.” – Chelsea Clinton, speaking on behalf of her mother, Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton

Former first daughter Chelsea Clinton made an appearance at the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee on Monday, Feb. 11, to answer a wide range of questions about her mother Hillary’s candidacy for president.

Shortly after 11 a.m., amidst much applause, Clinton was introduced by Lt. Governor Barbara Lawton, as well as UWM Student Association Sens. Brian Bromberek and Daniel Bahr.

Before taking questions, she took a moment to recognize the significance of the 2008 presidential elections.

“I do believe this is the most important election of my lifetime,” said Clinton. “I really believe in my mom.”

Fittingly, the first question asked by a member of the UWM crowd dealt with the issue of education, specifically the steady increase in the cost of a college degree. Clinton explained how her mother, if president, would replace Free Application for Federal Student Aid forms, provide aid for people involved in public service, and strengthen community colleges.

“She wants to double Pell Grants, expand tax credits to families, and she wants to expand national service,” said Clinton, using the example of AmeriCorps, a non-profit community service program founded by her father, former President Bill Clinton.

After concerns about healthcare were raised, Clinton explained how her mother is dedicated to universal healthcare for all Americans, and has been since “before it was fashionable” in the early 1990s. Clinton said her mother’s plan would include “mental and dental” health coverage.

Perhaps inevitably, a member of the audience asked Clinton about her mother’s thoughts on the Iraq War. She responded with a frank, straightforward answer.

“She would end the war today if she could,” said Clinton. “The [Bush] Administration is not planning for a withdrawal.”

Clinton went on to explain that within her mother’s first few days in office, phases of troop withdrawal would begin. In addition, a presidential victory for Hillary Clinton would see a refugee program for Iraqi civilians affected by the unrest.

In her responses to students and faculty, Clinton didn’t hesitate to criticize President Bush.

“One of the great tragedies of this administration is how fiscally irresponsible they have been,” she said.

Other topics of discussion at the question and answer session included global warming, veteran care, women’s rights and alternative transportation. Young voters interested in the Hillary Clinton presidential campaign were encouraged by Chelsea to visit http://www.hillblazers.com.

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