WASHINGTON (AP) - Former President Bill Clinton says President Barack Obama has "beaten the clock" to help the economy recover, telling Democratic donors he deserves to be re-elected.

Clinton made the first of three planned joint appearances with Obama Sunday evening, at the suburban Washington home of longtime Clinton supporter Terry McAuliffe. The two presidents have had a sometime testy relationship, but they appeared relaxed and friendly Sunday.

Clinton told about 500 supporters that Obama's presumed Republican rival wants to return the United States to failed economic policies, and do so "on steroids."

Neither Clinton nor Obama mentioned Republican Mitt Romney by name in the first of two addresses at the McAuliffe home.

Obama joked that every presidential candidate says the next election is crucial. But, he added, "This time it matters." 

 

 

 

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