Obama clashes with Republicans over health care system reform

US President Barack Obama has clashed with Republicans over his plan to overhaul the US health care system.

After an extraordinary day-long televised debate, it appears there is little hope for a compromise on an issue that could shape Obama's legacy.

Despite calls for cooperation, neither side gave ground.

Obama and his former presidential opponent Senator John McCain engaged in a testy exchange.

"We're not campaigning any more. The election's over."

"I'm reminded of that every day."

US President Barack Obama listens as Republican Congressional leaders speak while hosting a bipartisan meeting with members of Congress to discuss health reform. Obama's high-stakes health summit failed to break an impasse over his historic reform drive, prompting him to warn he would press on with or without Republican help. (AFP/Saul Loeb)