Republican 2012 hopefuls open debate in New Hampshire

[Gerald]

Michele Bachmann: "I was the very first member of Congress to introduce the full scale repeal of Obamacare"

Seven Republican presidential hopefuls have attacked President Barack Obama's economic record in the first major debate of the 2012 campaign.

The candidates for the party's nomination also focused criticism on his 2010 overhaul of the healthcare system, pledging to repeal "Obamacare".

They refrained from attacking one another, preferring to hit at Mr Obama.

Former Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney is the front-runner in the field bidding to challenge Mr Obama.

The first Republican primary elections do not take place until February.

The president's handling of the economy and healthcare reform quickly drew criticism, while his policies in Afghanistan and Libya also drew fire during the debate at Saint Anselm College, in New Hampshire.

'Obamacare' anger

Early on Mr Romney said Mr Obama had "failed" America, while former House Speaker Newt Gingrich said a new president was needed to end what he termed "the Obama depression".

Minnesota Representative Michele Bachmann, a favourite of the anti-tax Tea Party movement, said she had filed regulatory paperwork to enter the race officially, and criticised Mr Obama's effort to establish a universal healthcare programme.

"His report card right now has a big failing grade," Ms Bachmann said. "President Obama is a one-term president."

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-13751433

Note: 14 June 2011 Last updated at 04:24 GMT