Barack Obama has become the first sitting President to appear on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. Unfortunately, due to one minor slip of the tongue, his appearance has caused headlines for all the wrong reasons.

Obama was talking to Leno about the sport he plays at the White House. Leno asked if he’d been practicing bowling, and the following conversation then took place:

Obama: “I bowled a 129,”

Leno: “That’s very good, Mr. President,” (tongue firmly in cheek)

Obama: “It’s like the Special Olympics or something.”

Oops. That’s not what you should have said Mr. President. In one fell swoop, it belittles the Special Olympics, all of its competitors, and disabled people in general. Not something you want to hear the President of the United States uttering.

This comment has been blown out of proportion. It’s likely one of those things we are all capable of saying in the heat of the moment and then immediately regret. Sure, take a pop at Obama for it, but don’t crucify the man for a small mistake.