Speaking to supporters at a farm in New York’s Hudson Valley on Sunday, first lady Michelle Obama predicted a tighter result in November than the 7-point margin her husband enjoyed over Sen. John McCain in 2008.

“This election will be closer than the last one,” Obama said in Pocantico Hills, New York, 30 miles north of Manhattan. “That is the only thing I can guarantee you. So he needs your help. And sitting on the sidelines is simply not an option if we want to keep moving this country forward. Barack needs you to be actively and passionately engaged in this election.”

Obama was speaking to a brunch crowd of about 120 people at the Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture, which describes itself on its website as “a non-profit farm and education center.” Guests paid $1,500 per person for the event.