Obama spoke to some 2,000 people at the Portland Expo about the need for change in government health care, economic and foreign policies.
But he said it's also time for a basic change in the political system so Americans can rally behind a common purpose.
"It's still possible for us as Americans not as Democrats, Republicans or independents, but as Americans to join together and do great things," he said.
The hand-clapping, sign-waving crowd that paid $23 apiece for admission cheered repeatedly and rose to its feet during Obama's 35-minute speech. If elected, he said he would get out of Iraq, introduce universal health care coverage, change the tax code and reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil.
America also needs to improve its "moral standing" in the world by being more open to listening and negotiating with others, he said.
http://www.abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory?id=3650612