WASHINGTON - MR Barack Obama told financial supporters of his former Democratic White House rival Mrs Hillary Clinton late on Thursday that he would personally donate money to help pay off her debt, media reports said.

Following a meeting with Mrs Clinton's donors in Washington, it was reported that Mr Obama said he would personally be contributing US$2,300 to Mrs Clinton, the most he can offer under federal law, and would urge his backers to help out too.

The meeting took place on the eve of a 'Unite for Change' rally in the tiny New Hampshire town of Unity where both former rivals will campaign together.