On Monday, Democratic Party presidential candidate Barack Obama delivered a speech in which he outlined the steps needed to improve the United States'--and Michigan's--economy. While the corporate press largely focused on the reactions of people in the audience and the style with which Obama made his claims--a focus that was unfortunately mirrored by much of the liberal blogosphere in Michigan.

However, Senator Obama did make several pledges and announced several policy proposals. They included:

* "...investing $10 billion to guarantee access to quality, affordable, early childhood education for every child in America. Every dollar that we spend on these programs puts our children on a path to success, while saving us as much as $10 in reduced health care costs, crime, and welfare later on."

* "I'll make this pledge as President - if you commit your life to teaching, America will pay for your college education. We'll recruit teachers in math and science, and deploy them to under-staffed school districts in our inner cities and rural America. We'll expand mentoring programs that pair experienced teachers with new recruits. And when our teachers succeed, I won't just talk about how great they are - I'll reward their greatness with better pay and more support."

* "I want to give tax breaks to young people, in the form of an annual $4,000 tax credit that will cover two-thirds of the tuition at an average public college, and make community college completely free. In return, I will ask students to serve, whether it's by teaching, joining the Peace Corps, or working in your community."

* "...for those who serve in our military, we'll cover all of your tuition with an even more generous 21st Century GI Bill"

* "My energy plan will invest $150 billion over the next ten years to establish a green energy sector that will create up to 5 million jobs over the next two decades." According to Obama, this will include the development of wind power and hybrid cars in Michigan.

* "At a time when technology is shaping our future, we devote a smaller and smaller share of our national resources to Research and Development. It's time for America to lead. I'll double federal funding for basic research, and make the R&D tax credit permanent. We can ensure that the discoveries of the 21st century happen in America - in our labs and universities; at places like Kettering and the University of Michigan; Wayne State and Michigan State."

* "I will launch a National Infrastructure Reinvestment Bank that will invest $60 billion over ten years - a bank that can leverage private investment in infrastructure improvements, and create nearly two million new jobs. The work will be determined by what will maximize our safety and security and ability to compete. We will fund this bank as we bring the war in Iraq to a responsible close. It's time to stop spending billions of dollars a week on a blank check for an Iraqi government that won't spend its own oil revenues." With regard to this promise, it's important to remember that Obama's Iraq policy will not end the occupation of Iraq.

Overall, much of Obama's speech talked about the economy in general terms. However, it is critical for the news media--both corporate and independent--to report on the specifics of candidates' policies. Moreover, for social movements, it is essential to pay attention to these promises in order to hold candidates accountable once they are in office.