Aides to U.S. President Barack Obama say he will deliver a much stronger performance when he meets Republican challenger Mitt Romney Tuesday night in their second debate.

Mr. Obama was heavily criticized after his first debate on October 3 for appearing listless and ill-prepared against Mr. Romney, who who was far more engaged and aggressive. The president's poor showing led to a surge of support in voter opinion polls for his Republican rival, leaving both candidates locked in a virtual tie.

Tuesday's debate at New York's Hofstra University will utilize a so-called “town hall” format, where an audience of pre-selected undecided voters will pose questions to Mr. Obama and Mr. Romney.

The president spent several days last week preparing for the event at a resort in Williamsburg, Virginia, and aides say he will be more aggressive in challenging Mr. Romney's positions.

Mr. Romney's campaign announced Monday that it had raised $170 million in September. The Obama campaign announced last week that it had raised $181 million last month.