- The Washington Times - Tuesday, September 24, 2013

President Obama may be the leader of the free world, but when it comes to his home life, he admittedly takes a second seat.

Speaking with human-rights activist Maina Kiai at the U.N. General Assembly gathering in New York on Monday, Mr. Obama’s remarks on quitting cigarettes were captured on live microphone: “I hope you quit smoking. I haven’t had a cigarette in probably six years. That’s because I’m scared of my wife.”

He said the statement with a laugh, The New York Post reported.

Mr. Obama said in 2008 that he smoked occasionally. He said in 2010 that he quit, due to his daughters. But first lady Michelle Obama — who’s pushed healthy eating initiatives at the federal level since moving into the White House — has reportedly been critical of his smoking for years.

• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.

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