It was an error in judgment on Obama's part to have even answered that question at the press conference.

Most politicians don't like to answer ANY questions but I'm guessing the subject was a matter that Obama wanted to address (without fully knowing the facts in this particular case). A more seasoned veteran would have replied (to the reporter's question), "I'd rather not answer that until all the facts are known".

Obama now has to spend time/energy deflecting the fallout from this "mistake in judgment". Time and energy that could be well spent on his healthcare reform.

I don't think we'll see him make this kind of mistake again.