President Obama's Saturday rally to get-out-the Democratic vote in Illinois is on Chicago's South Side--near his home--on the Midway--near the University of Chicago. This makes strategic sense--Democrats need a big African American and youth turnout. What makes this very interesting is that this is not only the first free and public rally since Obama became president--but the neighborhood is rich in Obama history. Obama taught at the U of Chicago law school; first Lady Michelle Obama worked at the U of Chicago; the Obama girls Sasha and Malia attended the U of Chicago lab school and many of his early supporters--Valerie Jarrett, for example--also have strong ties to the U of Chicago. Before moving to Kenwood, the Obama's lived in Hyde Park.

South Sider hip hop artist Common will perform.

My column about this big rally is here.