The New Nation - Internet Edition

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Barack Obama, candidate for the Democratic Party's nomination to run for US president, has apologised to a reporter for calling her "sweetie".

Reporter Peggy Agar, of the WXYZ television network in Michigan, had shouted a question as Obama toured a Chrysler car plant in Detroit.

Obama said: "Hold on one second, sweetie" and did not answer.

He later left a message for Ms Agar saying it was a "bad habit" and he "meant no disrespect".

Ms Agar told the Detroit News: "I've been called worse."

Obama has been in Michigan to bolster his campaign as his battle for the Democratic nomination with rival Hillary Clinton reaches its climax.

During his visit he has secured the endorsement of former US Democratic presidential contender, John Edwards.

On his trip to the Chrysler LLC plant, Ms Agar shouted out: "How are you going to help the American auto workers?"

Obama said: "Hold on one second, sweetie, we'll do a press [session], thanks."

The Illinois senator later left a phone message that was played on the television station.

In it he said: "That's a bad habit of mine. I do it sometimes with all kinds of people. I mean no disrespect and so I am duly chastened on that front.

"Feel free to call me back. I expect that my press team will be happy to try to make it up to you whenever we are in Detroit next."