ROSEMONT – Even though he was speaking in President Barack Obama's home state, Republican vice presidential hopeful Paul Ryan told supporters in a Chicago suburb that their backing is critical in the camapign's final weeks.

During his fundraiser at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare in Rosemont, Ryan accused the president of distorting Mitt Romney's record and trying to "muddle and confuse" voters. He also said the GOP ticket is more focused than ever on defining the "very clear choice" between the candidates.

"Since the president cannot run on his record, he has to tear down Mitt Romney. He has to ... try and win by default," Ryan said. "Know why I'm not going to let him get away with it? Because you are here today to give us the resources we need to make sure he doesn't get away with it."