Obama promotes NJ governor's bid for re-election

CAMDEN, N.J. (AP) - President Barack Obama is telling voters in New Jersey that challenging economic times are worrying parents who want to send their kids to college and plan for their own retirement.

Obama is campaigning on behalf of New Jersey's Democratic governor, Jon Corzine, who is in a tough bid for re-election. Corzine is tied in polls with his Republican opponent, Chris Christie.

At a rally in Camden on Sunday, Obama blamed the economic downturn on trickle-down policies and lax regulation favored by Christie's Republican Party. The president praised Corzine for moving the state forward on education and economic issues.

Corzine draws criticism for his handling of state finances. The top issue for voters is the state's high property tax.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP's earlier story is below.

WASHINGTON (AP) - President Barack Obama is making a last-minute campaign appearance for New Jersey Gov. Jon Corzine's re-election bid.

Obama's scheduled to appear Sunday at a pair of rallies for the only incumbent governor seeking re-election. Just one of two governors' offices on the ballot for Tuesday's elections, the White House is aware Democratic losses would be spun as a referendum on Obama.

The results could also foreshadow next year's elections, when 37 governorships come up for grabs.

The president plans to appear with Corzine at two New Jersey campaign stops, in Camden and Newark, before returning to the White House.