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Philadelphia (CNN) -- Hillary Clinton gave a full-throated endorsement of Pennsylvania gubernatorial candidate Tom Wolf on Thursday, delivering a fiery speech that hit Wolf's Republican opponent, pushed the larger Democratic midterm message and, at times, highlighted herself.

Clinton's first public campaign rally was a noticeable departure for someone who, until now, has shied away from appearing on stage with candidates. In Florida, New York and Illinois, the former first lady has opted to tout candidates in tight races behind closed doors. Wolf, however, is a safer bet for Clinton, as most polls have the Democrat up by double digits over Republican incumbent Tom Corbett.

"I am here for one reason, as a proud woman for Wolf," Clinton said, touting the Democrat's focus on education and women. "When you strip it all away, that is what this election is all about," she later added.

Her speech, though, also sounded strikingly similar to stump speeches Clinton gives when touting herself. The former first lady talked up her Pennsylvania roots (her father's side of the family was from Scranton) and noted the importance of turnout by subtly referencing her failed 2008 presidential election.

"From my perspective, you can't count on things turning out the way you wanted," Clinton said. "You've got to work for it."

And while two large Wolf for governor signs stood on stage in front of the roughly 900 attendees, the crowd clearly was more excited to see Clinton, a potential 2016 presidential candidate.

"Listen, I am the one running for governor," Wolf said, half joking, when Clinton peeked her head around the curtain behind the stage and the crowd erupted in applause.

Clinton touted Wolf as a "fresh start," someone who would fight for Pennsylvania families and workers and "turn around" the state.

"I am pleased that you are all here supporting that campaign," Clinton told the supportive crowd. "Because you are convinced, as I am convinced, that Tom Wolf is the right leader and the right time for Pennsylvania's hard-working people."

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Hillary Clinton carefully eases back into campaigning