Obama arrives in Philly for rally in support of Clinton

The president took the stage, to huge cheers, at about 1:40 p.m.

Obama told the crowd he was optimistic about the future and said the choice voters make in November would determine the county's direction.

Across the city, about 40 people were awaiting the president's arrival at Philadelphia International Airport, under warm sunny skies about 12:30 p.m.

Yolanda Dugger, of Philadelphia, had an iPad ready to record the president's arrival. She said she admired the president for the success he had after growing up without his biological father.

Dugger, 57, said she hoped Obama's story would inspire young men in single-parent homes "and empower them to be better people."

Mike Bernstein, 15 (but turning 16 Wednesday), held the book "Obama's Legacy" by Daily News editor Michael Days. "It's fun," he said of waiting to see the president.

As Obama made his way to the Art Museum, attendees explained what drew them to the event.

The event generated widespread interest, with big crowds lining up at Eakins Oval far in advance of the president's appearance.

For more updates, follow reporters Aubrey Whelan, Maddie Hanna and Jonathan Tamari on Twitter.