'There never was a deal, but I do believe the meeting was important to move the process along. It gave us a renewed sense of urgency and I'm confident we will move forward, and I'm confident that we will reach a conclusion.'
Republican presidential candidate John McCain, on bailout negotiations

'Sometimes if you inject presidential politics into some delicate negotiations, it's not necessarily constructive. It's amazing how much people can get done when folks aren't worried about taking the credit or passing the blame.'
Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama, on the negotiations

'I understand how important this debate is and I'm very hopeful. But I also have to put the country first.'
Mr McCain, on turning up for the debate

'One of us is going to be in charge of this mess in four months, and the American people, I think, have a right and obligation to find out where we want to take the country and what we believe.'
Mr Obama, on the debate