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Rep. Hansen Clark, D-Detroit, pauses for a picture with University of Michigan quarterback Denard Robinson. Robinson’s arrival at the president’s speech drew loud cheers from the crowd.

Those gathered to watch President Obama’s speech recite the Pledge of Allegiance before he takes the stage.

People gathered early outside the Al Glick Field House on the morning of Jan. 27 to get good seats or standing room for President Obama’s speech, which was slated to start at 9:35 a.m. but began late.

About 3,000 University of Michigan students attended the speech. Some had waited 10 hours overnight in the cold to get tickets to the event.

University of Michigan students cheer during “Hail to the Victors” while waiting for President Obama.

Sen. Carl Levin, D-Detroit, (right) was in attendance at President Obama’s speech, as was Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Lansing.

Part of President Obama’s proposal includes doubling the number of work-study jobs over the next five years. He also urged Congress to stop student interest rates from doubling in July.

President Obama proposed a plan that would give incentives to colleges and universities that did not raise tuition. He said it was “inexcusable” that student debt is higher than credit card debt in this country.

In speaking about tax rates, President Obama advocated following the “Buffett Rule” — those who make $1 million or more each year would pay at least 30 percent in taxes, while those who make less than $250,000 per year would not face tax increases.