Obama, Romney prepare for debates as running mates spar

BELMONT, Massachusetts (AFP) - United States (US) President Barack Obama and rival Mitt Romney prepared for Wednesday's debate this weekend, leaving their running mates to spar over policy and seek votes in key swing states.

With the president off the campaign trail just 38 days before Americans vote on Nov 6, Mr Romney spent a quiet day in Massachusetts, visiting the home of son Tagg in a Boston suburb and, according to his campaign, steering clear of debate preparation.

But with both men seeking an edge in their crucial first face-off of the campaign, they will undoubtedly be spending the bulk of their time between now and Wednesday's debate in preparation for the showdown in Denver, Colorado, one of about a dozen swing states where voters will determine the election.

Mr Obama travels to Nevada for an event on Sunday, and spends the next two days in the town of Henderson gearing up for Wednesday, according to the White House.