Sen. Barack Obama

It’s official.

Barack Obama has formally announced his candidacy for president of the United Staes.

Obama, a 45-year-old, one term U.S. Senator from Illinois, joined a crowded primary field of Democrats on Saturday, Feb. 10.

He announced his candidacy while standing before thousands at the historic Old State Capitol in Springfield, Ill. where Abraham Lincoln delivered his “House Divided” speech against slavery in 1858.

”People who love their country can change it,” said Obama to a cheering crowd. “It was here, in Springfield, where North, South, East and West come together that I was reminded of the essential decency of the American people — where I came to believe that through this decency, we can build a more hopeful America.”

Obama joins a crowded Democratic field that includes New York Sen. Hilary Clinton, former North Caorlina Sen. John Edwards, and others.

Polls indicate that Obama lags behind Clinton 24 points with the black vote.

But N.C. Central students are excited about the Obama campaign.

“I was very excited and this is something that I’ve been hoping for,” said history senior Aqua Drakes. “My heart fluttered when I heard the wonderful news. I’m going online to see what I can do to help out with his campaign”.

Some students are sceptical, however, about the prospect of an African American getting elected for president in the U.S.

“I don’t think the world is ready for a African American to become president,” said Brinton Hayes, mass communication freshman.