WASHINGTON (August 6, 2012)-- President Barack Obama planned to raise campaign cash with the help of Hollywood star power later Monday as his opponent closes in on a vice presidential selection.

Mr. Obama was expected to raise at least $2.5 million at two events in Connecticut, including one at the home of film mogul Harvey Weinstein.

Co-hosts for the Weinstein event include actresses Anne Hathaway and Joanne Woodward and writer Aaron Sorkin.

Mr. Obama and Republican rival Mitt Romney are locked in a tight contest for the White House with three months before the election.

Romney has out-raised Mr. Obama during the past two months, prompting the president to redouble fundraising efforts.

Romney is expected to name his running mate before this month's Republican National Convention.

He was spending Monday in private meetings at his New Hampshire vacation home.