Obama visits press room, miffed by quiz

WASHINGTON, Jan. 23 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama surprised the White House press corps with a get-acquainted visit only to be miffed by a reporter's question, sources said.

As Obama weaved through the crowded chambers Thursday afternoon shaking hands with the journalists and camera operators, a reporter asked how the president could reconcile a strict ban on lobbyists in his administration with a deputy defense secretary nominee who lobbied for Raytheon, Politico said.

"Ahh, see," Obama said, "I came down here to visit. See this is what happens. I can't end up visiting with you guys and shaking hands if I'm going to get grilled every time I come down here."

Pressed further about the nomination of William Lynn, an obviously agitated Obama told the reporter to wait for the formal White House press conference and then he will answer questions.