Madonna: Muslim Obama remark 'ironic'

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WASHINGTON, Sept. 26 (UPI) -- U.S. pop star Madonna says she was being ironic when she referred to President Barack Obama as a "black Muslim in the White House" during a Washington concert.

"Now, it's so amazing and incredible to think that we have an African-American in the White House ... We have a black Muslim in the White House ... It means there is hope in this country, and Obama is fighting for gay rights, so support the man," the 54-year-old singer said while urging her fans Monday night to re-elect Obama and appreciate the freedom America offers.

Madonna released a statement clarifying her remark after critics loudly reminded her Obama is not a follower of Islam, but a practicing Christian, The Guardian reported.

"I was being ironic on stage. Yes, I know Obama is not a Muslim -- though I know that plenty of people in this country think he is. And what if he were?" Madonna said in a statement Tuesday. "The point I was making is that a good man is a good man, no matter who he prays to. I don't care what religion Obama is -- nor should anyone else in America."