Republican U.S. Senate candidate Alan Keyes will speak from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. today in DuSable Hall, Room 246.

“It’s important for people in DeKalb County and the university to go beyond television and news and big city newspapers,” said DeKalb County Board member Joe Wiegand, R-1. “To fully appreciate the talent and gift he has as a public servant, it is beneficial to hear him speak at length.”

Wiegand said Keyes will speak to POLS 304, American public opinion. Afterward, Keyes will field questions from the audience.

“He is more likely to stand up for what he calls ‘declaration principles,’ principles founded during the Declaration of Independence,” Wiegand said.

Keyes will then travel to Rockford for a 5:30 p.m. rally at the Greater Rockford Airport.

“It’s an opportunity for people from throughout the region to hear Alan and his message,” Wiegand said. “Here is a campaign that doesn’t have the money for 30-second commercials.”

Keyes accepted the Republican U.S. Senate nomination in August after previous Republican candidate Jack Ryan ended his candidacy.

Keyes faces Democratic candidate Barack Obama in his bid for the U.S. Senate.