When President Obama called California Attorney General Kamala Harris “the best looking attorney general” at a Democratic fundraiser on Thursday, he immediately came under fire.
Even though he also called her dedicated, tough and brilliant, critics felt Obama’s remarks were demeaning her accomplishments and he should not have publicly commented on her looks. The commander in chief has apologized to Harris, the White House Secretary says. She has accepted his apology.
“The Attorney General and the President have been friends for many years,” Harris’ spokesman said in a Friday statement. “They had a great conversation yesterday and she strongly supports him.”
Many felt those who were offended by his comments were making a big deal about nothing, while feminist groups across America were up in arms about the potential affects comments like the one he made can have on the progress and reputation of women in the workforce.
“[The President] fully recognizes the challenges women continue to face in the workplace and that they should not be judged based on appearance,” the White House press secretary adds. “They’re old friends. He certainly regretted that [his comments] caused a distraction.”