For newer face, a need to 'tell my story'

CHESTER, Va. -- Barack Obama, whose oratory and opposition to the war in Iraq helped propel him to the Democratic presidential nomination, said Thursday that he's preparing for an election he believes will turn on the economy.

In an interview here with USA TODAY, Obama spoke about his multiracial background, the meteoric journey that will take him to Denver to accept his party's presidential nomination next Thursday night and the potential obstacles that follow. The interview took place during a three-day campaign swing that took him through traditionally Republican communities of the rural South.

Although Obama said he had settled on a running mate, he would not offer a name or even say whether he had yet informed his choice.

Voters' economic fears played a role in his decision. Obama said he sought someone who "will be a partner with me in strengthening this economy for the middle ...