Presidential hopefuls clash over tactics in Ohio debate

DEMOCRATIC presidential rivals Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama clashed over negative campaign tactics, the Iraq war and trade in their last debate before crucial primary elections next week.

The tone was polite but pointed, reflecting the fact that arguments between the two campaigns have become increasingly intense over the last few days.

The pair clashed over campaign leaflets, foreign policy and a picture of Mr Obama in Somali dress during the 90-minute debate at Cleveland State University in Ohio.

"The charges that Senator Obama's campaign has made regarding fliers and mailers and other information that he has been putting out have been very disturbing to me," Mrs Clinton said.

But Mr Obama replied that the Clinton campaign had "constantly sent out negative attacks on us".

Next Tuesday's primaries in Texas and Ohio could prove decisive.

Mr Obama has won all 11 contests since Super Tuesday earlier this month.