SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Downtown Springfield came to a stand-still this morning as thousands poured in from across the country, braving bitter temperatures and long lines to gather in front of the old state capitol.

A little after 10 a.m. they got exactly what they were waiting for when Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., took the podium.

“I stand before you today to announce my candidacy for President of the United States of America,” he told a multitude of supporters and members of the press.

The build-up to Obama’s speech was marked by tense anticipation and occasional, spontaneous cheering form the crowd. Staffers and volunteers passed out hand-warmers and knit hats.

“I’m here to support Barack,” said Dave Wear, freshman in LAS and member of College Democrats at the University.

Wear and other College Democrats traveled to Springfield in order to be present at the announcement and help staff members and volunteers.

“He’s really an inspiring guy…this is something I’ll remember for the rest of my life,” he said.

“We’ve been out here since 7 a.m. freezing, but it’s worth it,” said Justin Shlensky, also a freshman in LAS from the University and a member of College Democrats. “For a speech like that from a man so inspiring its worth the frost bite.”

Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., who introduced Obama before his speech took a few moments to speak with the Daily Illini about his collegue’s campaign.

“I’m here because Obama is here… and I think his chances are very good in this race,” he said. “(Senator Clinton) is the front runner and Barack is the underdog right now, he’s got a good shot.”

Prior to the event, a local church choir performed and a soloist sang the national anthem. During Obama’s specch, reactions from the crowd were enthusistic.

“This can’t be just about me, it has to be about us,” Obama said. “This campaign should be a vehicle for your hopes and dreams.”

Obama briefly outlined his platform during the speech, placing emphasis on universal health care, reform of education and bringing home American soldiers from Iraq.

“I have drafted a plan that will bring all of our troops home by March of 2008.”

Obama will make appearances at several colleges and universities in Iowa this weekend before returning to Illinois to give a speech at the University of Illinois at Chicago tomorrow afternoon.