Support for 'my girl' Clinton is personal, Mrs. Obama says

WASHINGTON -- As first ladies, they hardly could have been more different. But as Democrats looking to fire up female voters, Michelle Obama and Hillary Clinton were firmly bonded Thursday.

In their first joint appearance on the campaign trail, Obama and Clinton talked up their shared respect, common values and singular goal: defeating Republican Donald Trump. They papered over a somewhat rocky history and their vastly different paths through public life.

With Mrs. Obama aiming to secure her husband's legacy and Clinton needing to propel women to the polls, the two women sought to celebrate their political marriage of mutual interest, and reassure voters it's real.

"Seriously, is there anyone more inspiring than Michelle Obama?" Clinton asked, as a crowd in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, answered with cheers.

Obama declared the feeling mutual. She referred to Clinton as "my girl" and offered reassurance her testimony for Clinton is both personal and political.

Since she's emerged as Clinton's headline-grabbing surrogate, people wonder one thing, Obama noted.

"Yes, Hillary Clinton is my friend," she answered.

It's a reasonable question.

In the East Wing, Clinton delved into policy, undertook a massive project and failed under a harsh spotlight. Obama largely steered clear and enjoyed quieter, modest success.

Both Ivy League-trained lawyers with their own careers, Clinton bridled under the stereotypes associated with the office, while Obama declared herself "mom-in-chief."

While Clinton held onto her maiden name, her Democratic successor let it be known she preferred the "Mrs." title.

And when her time in the White House was ending, Clinton began plotting her return to Washington. Obama hasn't hidden her readiness to leave. The White House quickly and repeatedly has shot down any talk of the first lady continuing in politics.

Acknowledging her reluctance in the political spotlight, Obama said, "I would not be here" if she didn't believe Clinton would be a president she would trust.

"I believe with all of my heart that Hillary Clinton will be that president," she said.

Democrats have relished Obama's speeches as high points of the campaign cycle. Her passionate response to Trump's vulgar comments about women brought an emotional resonance Clinton, who rarely gets personal on the stump, doesn't deliver often.

Obama's appearances have become a key part of Clinton's effort to fire up women -- particularly black women, for whom she's a model and a source of pride. Both Clinton and Obama on Thursday revived a line from her DNC speech -- "When they go low, we go high" -- turning it into a call and response.

The North Carolina event drew about 11,000 people, according to the fire marshal, one of the largest crowds of Clinton's campaign. Trump repeatedly boasts his crowds are larger than hers.

The audience roared as the two women walked onstage, turned to each other and embraced.

As first lady, Obama largely has dodged controversial issues. She's stayed focused on her projects involving healthful eating, exercise, support for military families and education for girls -- avoiding public opinions on thornier subjects. She's cultivated a brand built on style, glamour and fashion.

Hillary Clinton was a veteran of the feminist movement and ready to expand the office of first lady to suit her experience and passion for policy. She had an office in the West Wing, took over the health-care overhaul effort and ultimately became a target of investigations and criticism alongside her husband.