Michaud condemns loss of jobs in convention speech

BOSTON – Rep. Michael Michaud on Thursday told a nearly full Democratic National Convention that American workers are suffering under a Bush administration that has presided over the loss of 1.1 million jobs since taking office.

“We will choose a vision for America where everyone who is willing to work hard deserves an opportunity to get ahead,” Michaud said in endorsing the John Kerry presidential ticket.

Michaud became the third Mainer to address the crowd, which at its peak reaches about 35,000 people. On Wednesday, Rep. Tom Allen of Portland discussed healthcare issues and on Tuesday, Gov. John Baldacci recounted for the crowd Maine’s efforts to provide healthcare to the uninsured and tax incentives to companies that bring jobs to Maine.

Michaud, a Millinocket Democrat, derided the current administration for encouraging “outsourcing” of jobs – some of them high paying – to foreign countries. It has been a popular theme at the convention as Democrats believe the issue is a liability for the Bush campaign.

Michaud’s brief 6 p.m. speech came as conventioneers jammed into the FleetCenter in anticipation of Kerry’s acceptance speech, set for 10 p.m.

Michaud, a millworker, told the crowd of his hometown’s dire economic fortunes of late, including high unemployment. He also likened his upbringing to that of vice presidential nominee John Edwards, also the son of a millworker.

In his convention speech, Michaud evoked images of his working-class roots – including his old lunch bucket – which help guide him on Capitol Hill.

“That very same lunch bucket sits prominently in my Washington office and reminds me never to stop working hard,” he said.

Michaud, serving his first term, is running for reelection against Republican Brian Hamel of Presque Isle.