First lady says HUD will play a critical role in economic recovery

[Turborama]

Source: AP

By NATASHA T. METZLER , Associated Press

WASHINGTON - First lady Michelle Obama says the Housing and Urban Development Department will play a critical role in the economic recovery plan.

She told about 600 enthusiastic HUD staffers on Wednesday that they would be asked to do even more to stem the tide of foreclosures. Home ownership is one of the building blocks of strong communities, she told cheering employees, adding that she and her husband, President Barack Obama, were now their neighbors.

Hundreds lined up for more than an hour before the first lady was due to speak. Many held aloft cameras and cell phones to take pictures of her entrance.

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