Democrats from Eastern and across Coles County rallied Wednesday in Charleston to support U.S. Senate candidate Barack Obama.

Attendees participated in a conference call with Obama, who was put on speakerphone for a 15-minute question and answer session. They also spoke to Illinois Senator Dick Durbin and Obama’s wife, Michelle.

Democrats of all ages watched Obama’s speech from the Democratic National Convention, which took place in July, and listened to the music of local band, Elsinore, during the event sponsored by Eastern’s College Democrats.

Tables at the Coles County Democratic Headquarters featured bumper stickers, buttons, pamphlets and other information endorsing Democratic candidates, both local and national.

Information about Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry covered such issues as taxation, social security and manufacturing jobs. People could donate money to the Democratic Party, pick up absentee ballot forms and sign up to volunteer.

The College Democrats were happy with the turnout of the event, said College Democrat Brittany Dyer.

“I think a lot of kids didn’t get the chance to get out here,” said Mike Tomasek, Sargent at Arms for the College Democrats. “But it’s well organized and I’m glad a lot of kids did come out.”

Coles County Democrats were also impressed with the turnout.

“We have a lot to thank the young democrats on campus for bringing out the crowd,” said State’s Attorney Steve Ferguson.

County board member Pat Black said, “(college students) can change what’s going on in Washington, but they don’t realize how important their vote is.”

The College Democrats also registered people to vote.

“Our goal is to get the student body registered. Not even half of the student population votes,” Dyer said.