BOSTON-Energy filled historic Faneuil Hall Saturday as hundreds rallied to hear Democratic gubernatorial hopeful Deval Patrick speak about his vision to improve the state of education, employment and poverty in Massachusetts. Brandeis provided about 45 of the 250 Boston-area students, 'Deis for Deval Coordinator Ari Fertig '08 said. About 2,000 total supporters rallied around the marketplace.

Patrick spoke about the success of his grassroots "people's campaign," which he said emphasizes building a secure future. "Massachusetts is at a crossroads," he said. "Yesterday's greatness will not guarantee tomorrow's."

Unlike previous governors, whom Patrick said were more interested in having the title than actually doing the job, Patrick said he plans to work tirelessly.

"Don't give up on me, because I will never give up on you," Patrick said.

"I thought [the speech] was absolutely amazing," Fertig said. "He did a great job articulating how we need to have a better way for our future, and how we can set aside the cynicism of politics."

Sam Zelitch '09, a 'Deis for Deval member, said he and others who are not registered to vote in Massachusetts support the campaign because they believe in a fair democracy.

Many of Patrick's Brandeis supporters are not registered to vote in Massachusetts, but say they support him because he is a progressive candidate.

"Everyone should support him, regardless of where they come from," said Yael Rooks-Rapport '09, who is from Kentucky and cannot vote in the election, but attended the rally.

She said Patrick spoke dynamically, but she wished he talked more about his professional accomplishments, rather than the bad things his opponents have done.

Eric Pekar '08, Democracy For America's campaign coordinator, said even though he is not registered to vote in Massachusetts, he believes getting politicians like Patrick elected will aid the political future of the Democratic Party.

"It will be one of the first steps in creating a more progressive government for America," Pekar said.

However, he said Patrick's speech did more to get the crowd excited than explain his positions on key issues.

Support for Patrick, which Fertig said has been "phenomenal" on campus, has spread rapidly at Brandeis and across the state over the last several months.

Fertig added that 'Deis for Deval needs to advertise more aggressively to engage students who are not already politically active.

In addition to DFA, which Fertig said has endorsed Patrick, 'Deis for Deval will also work to gain the support of the Brandeis chapter of the College Democrats of America.

"I'm very glad we endorsed him," Voldman, who attended the rally, said. "He will be the next governor, and Brandeis is going to support him all the way."

Patrick was scheduled to make a campaign stop at Brandeis earlier this month, but canceled the appearance due to scheduling conflicts. Fertig said he is trying to reschedule for a date in the future.