Obama Apologizes for Comments About Calif. AG's Appearance

Kamala Harris more than just a pretty face

President Obama called California Attorney General Kamala Harris on Thursday to apologize for his comments about her appearance that have drawn a storm of criticism.

"He called her to apologize for the distraction created by his comments," White House press secretary Jay Carney said during his briefing Friday, later adding that the president had also apologized for his remark.

Obama "did not want in any way to diminish the attorney general's professional accomplishments and her capabilities," Carney said. "He fully recognizes the challenges women continue to face in the workplace and that they should not be judged based on appearance."