Obama outlines goals, background to nation

WASHINGTON, Oct. 29 (UPI) -- Barack Obama reached out to millions of TV-viewing Americans Wednesday night, detailing his platform and offering his biography in a 30-minute infomercial.

"I still see optimism and hope and strength" despite difficult economic times, Obama said at the beginning of the advertorial in which he discussed his plans for education, energy independence, the economy and healthcare that would "restore the long-term health of our economy and our middle class."

Clips from different speeches, testimonials from congressional members and several governors were woven with stories of different Americans highlighting different planks of his platform and tied together by Obama speaking to the camera. Obama's campaign spent between $3.5 million to $5 million to air the extended commercial on seven networks.

"What struck me most about these stories you'll see tonight is not just the challenges these Americans face," Obama said, "but also their resolve to change this country."

He offered both short- and long-term plans to revive the nation's economy. The $700 billion financial markets rescue plan is a good start, Obama said, but "we also need a rescue plan for the middle class."

The last minutes of the infomercial cut to a live rally in Florida with Obama and vice presidential candidate Sen. Joe Biden of Delaware.

"In this week," Obama said, "if you'll stand with me and fight by my side and cast your ballot for me ... then I promise you we will not just win Florida, we will win this election. And together we will change this country and change the world."