Valerie Jarrett to Virginia Delegates: The Truth Matters

CHARLOTTE — Senior White House advisor Valerie Jarrett spoke to Virginia delegates Thursday morning reiterating the Democrats' case for the re-election of President Barack Obama.

"This convention has given us a chance to speak directly to the American people about what kind of mess the president inherited, how he has moved our country forward and his road map to the future," Jarrett said to a room full of delegates during a morning breakfast. 

Jarrett briefly touched on issues like job growth and women's rights, and Obama's efforts to recover the auto industry.

Jarrett told delegates about a conversation her 86-year-old mother had with her 26-year-old daughter and said women should have the right to choose what happens with their bodies.

She said her mother told her daughter: “I did not think you were going to have to fight the battles that I fought 50 years ago. That is not what I expected for your future."

On the auto industry, Jarrett said: “At the time, it was not the most popular decision but our president does what he believes is right. He does not put his short-term political interests ahead of you."

Jarrett said the qualities that Obama possesses are important as president.

"Character matters. Integrity matters. Telling the American people the truth matters. Putting your country first ... matters."

"I want to make sure that we have a president that is looking toward the future. Who is moving our country toward the future where we have a long-term sustainable healthy country, where our children can thrive and reach their dreams."

Jarrett was one of several speakers making the case for Obama.

Connecticut Gov. Dannel Malloy, Virginia businessman and former Democratic National Committee chairman Terry McAuliffe, Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak and U.S. Sen. Evan Bayh of Indiana addressed the group.

Malloy delivered what he called a personalized message to delegates.

"If this budgetary plan that Paul Ryan has rolled out and that Mitt Romney has endorsed ... If that comes to bear in Virginia, the progress that has been made will become dissipated."

"Do not think that they’re only going to pick on the middle class in a place like Connecticut or New York. They’re coming for your place as well."

Malloy said there are three reasons to vote for Obama: "You have a sister, you have a mother or you have a daughter." 

He also added: “Or, you have a brain.”