Reactions mixed following town hall

RIO RANCHO, N.M. (KRQE) - Hundreds stood in line for hours, many waiting since 3 a.m. Thursday, all for a chance to catch a glimpse at the President and to make sure New Mexicans were heard.

The line stretched on for at least a half mile, wrapping around the back of Rio Rancho High School.  Those who showed up at 7 a.m., like Judith Harris, thought they were early but were in for a rude awakening.

"When I saw the line I realized it wasn't that early," Harris said.

The minumum wait time as three hours, yet if one asked anyone standing in line they would all agree it was worth it.  The town hall meeting gave New Mexicans a chance to voice their concerns and there were plenty to address.

While the more than 1,500 people waited in line, some jotted down questions and others chatted with neighbors about pressing issues like healthcare, education and the war.

When they came out some thought their questions were addressed, but to university student Peter Estrada, it was like the same old song and dance.  "I guess what i heard is basically what he's been saying every time you turn the TV on," he said.

His disappointment was shared with others, especially those who came to hear just about the creidt crisis agenda.  Mathew Muñoz was upset because the discussion trailed off the original agenda and there wasn't very much new information.

For the most part those who attended the meeting said they do believe President Obama listened on Thursday. However, they were divided when asked if the President's open ear would really make a difference.

"He's always up front," Leon Scott said, " I do believe we're on the right track."