Democratic presidential nominee Senator Barack Obama (D-IL) makes a statement to the press about his campaign following a telephone conversation with his opponent, Republican Senator John McCain, in Clearwater, Florida, September 24, 2008. REUTERS/Jason Reed

CLEARWATER, Florida (Reuters) - Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama said on Thursday Congressional leaders had made progress on a financial rescue package and “appear close to a deal.”

“Now is the time to come together, Democrats and Republicans, in a spirit of cooperation on behalf of the American people,” Obama said before he left Florida to return to Washington for a White House meeting with President George W. Bush, John McCain, his Republican rival in the November 4 election, and members of Congress.

“Congressional leaders have made progress in their negotiations and appear close to a deal,” Obama said by video linkup to a conference in New York.