President Barack Obama weighed in on the controversy lighting up the blogosphere between a Democratic strategist and Ann Romney, wife of GOP presidential candidate Mitt Romney. The president told Columbus, OH television station WCMH that candidates’ wives should be off limits. Obama defended Ann Romney.

“First of all there is no tougher job than being a mom. I've watched Michelle, who for most of her career had to juggle work and family, but there were times when she was on maternity leave and I promise you that's work. So I think this was an ill-advised statement by somebody on television. It's not something that I subscribe to, and moreover my general rule is you don't talk about the spouses of elected officials because they've got a really tough job. They're out there supporting their husband or wife who have chosen to serve in public eye. Sometimes that spouse isn't volunteering for that job, but they're doing the best they can supporting somebody they love and they care about. And i think they're off limits, so on both counts it was the wrong thing to say and I haven't met Ms. Romney but she seems like a wonderful woman and I know that she's devoted her life to her family.”

Democratic strategist Hilary Rosen questioned stay at home mom Ann Romney’s qualifications to advise on women’s economic issues. (full story on CNN.com)