They put their campaigns on hold over the weekend out of respect for the victims of the movie theater shooting in Aurora, Colo., which killed 12 people and injured 58 others.
The president campaigned in San Francisco on Monday morning before heading to Reno, Nev., where he spoke before Veterans of Foreign War. He touted his achievements in the war on terror. He noted the deaths of Osama bin Laden and top al Qaeda leaders.
"As we look ahead to the challenges that we face as a nation and the leadership that's required, you don't just have my words, you have my deeds," Obama told the veterans group. He jabbed often at Romney without ever naming him.
Meanwhile, Romney had a breakfast fundraiser in Irvine, which cost $1,000 a head to attend. He then went on to speak at a small business roundtable in Costa Mesa, which was attended by 11 people. This was Romney's third visit to Orange County since March.
At the roundtable, Romney presented his 59-point plan to create jobs and economic growth if he becomes president.
"I have to encourage entrepreneurs and innovators to start businesses, grow businesses, get businesses, keep more of their capital, so they can invest in businesses. Doing those things will create more jobs," Romney said to the participants.
In the evening, Romney attended a private fundraiser at the Bel Air home of real estate mogul Fred Sands. About 80 supporters paid more than $25,000 a plate to hear Romney speak. The former Massachusetts governor is set to go on a closely watched trip overseas.
It is estimated that Romney and the GOP raised $10 million during fundraisers the last two days in California. The president, meanwhile, is expected to take away $6 million during his three-day West Coast swing.
