Ann Arbor - Democratic presidential hopeful John Kerry paid Michigan a visit Wednesday. Kerry chose Washtenaw Community College in Ann Arbor for the final stop of his "Jobs First Express" bus tour across West Virginia, Pennslyvania, Ohio and Michigan.

Throughout the tour, Kerry revealed his plans to strengthen the economy. The plan had three major components: reversing the job shortage and wage recession, balancing the budget in Washington and revitalizing the manufacturing industry. Kerry also revealed his plan for manufacturing in Ann Arbor.

More than 400 people gathered to listen to him speak. Gov. Jennifer Granholm introduced Kerry, saying that she was pleased he decided to stop in the state.

"We are so glad Sen. Kerry decided to reveal his plan to revitalize manufacturing right here at the heart of the universe - Michigan," she said.

Kerry took the stage to a standing ovation and began his "jobs first" speech by stressing the importance of manufacturing.

"There is no greater priority," he said. "Unless we create jobs, America cannot grow stronger."

For more on this story, please see Thursday's edition of The State News.