With the Democrats looking strong following a series of gaffs by Republican Presidential candidate Mitt Romney, President Barack Obama saw the chance to bring his star power into the fray and enjoyed some mutual back slapping time with Jay Z and Beyonce at an exclusive New York City fundraiser at Jigga's 40/40 club in Manhattan.

The fundraiser for Obama's Presidential campaign saw around 100 people pay roughly $40,000 a seat as the three took centre stage. "I can't tell you how proud we are to host tonight's event with President Obama," said Beyonce, looking stunning in a red cocktail dress and styling her hair into blond curls. "We believe in his vision." A bashful Obama was equally complimentary, comparing the singer to his wife First Lady Michelle Obama and quipping that it was they who took the spotlight rather than him and Hova.

"We both have daughters and our wives are more popular than we are" he commented. "So, you know, we've got a little bond there. It's hard but it's OK." Taking on a more serious tone, Obama insisted that "Beyonce could not be a better role model for my girls," and thanked the star couple for their friendship. A few months ago it was looking decidedly dicey for Obama, but with a series of gaffs by his opponent Romney, not least being video-taped admitting he'd never gain the vote of those dependent on the government for benefits, things are looking markedly stronger for the current President.