MANCHESTER, N.H. -- Michelle Obama rallied New Hampshire Democrats on Thursday in advance of her husband's visit to the state on Friday.

Michelle Obama Rallies Democratic Voters

Presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Sen. Barack Obama has planned an event Friday in Unity, N.H., with former rival Sen. Hillary Clinton. Michelle Obama reached out to Clinton supporters on Friday and also tried to connect with women on issues that are important to them.

"Because of Hillary Clinton's work, the issues of importance to women and working families are front and center in this election," Michelle Obama said.

In a talk-show-style event, Michelle Obama praised Clinton. She was joined by former governor and Senate candidate Jeanne Shaheen and four New Hampshire women. Michelle Obama said that women are a bloc of voters who often struggle in silence.

"We are stretched all over the place," she said. "(We have to make) time to care for an elderly parent, time for homework, time to run a household."

In an hour-long discussion, the women talked at length about the economy, health care, and education, even as they wondered out loud how they got on such a prominent stage.

"My son even said that to me: 'What position do you have that you get to be on the show?'" mother Kate Solter said. "To know that someone who changes diapers can change the world."

After the event, many Democrats said the olive branch offered to Clinton is a clear indicator that bitterness between the campaigns is a thing of the past.

"I think it's very important," Shaheen said. "I think people want to know their leaders are working together."

Shaheen said Michelle Obama's compliments will go a long way toward healing the divide that opened up in the contentious primary season. More importantly, she said, it sets the stage for Friday's big event in Unity.

Watch live coverage of the Obama-Clinton Unity event Friday on TheBostonChannel.com.