U.S. President Barack Obama and Republican challenger Mitt Romney are making final preparations for their second debate.

The two men will take questions late Tuesday from an audience of pre-selected undecided voters during their so-called “town hall” debate at New York's Hofstra University.

Analysts say Mr. Romney delivered the stronger performance in the first debate earlier this month and Mr. Obama will need to sharpen his performance this time.

Earlier in the day, White House spokesman Robert Gibbs told MSNBC Mr. Obama would be “strong,” “passionate” and “energetic” during the debate.

Meanwhile, Mr. Romney's campaign aide, Richard Beeson, said the Republican challenger “clearly has the momentum” heading into the final weeks before the November election. He cited polls indicating the former Massachusetts governor has been closing the gap with Mr. Obama since the last debate.

On Monday, Mr. Romney's campaign announced it has raised $170 million in September.

Last week, the Obama campaign announced it had raised $181 million last month.