Obama says quit smoking because he was 'scared of my wife'

Reuters
U.S. President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama arrive in New York, where Obama will attend the United Nations General Assembly September 23, 2013. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque

NEW YORK (Reuters) - President Barack Obama says he quit smoking for a reason that many husbands can relate to: "I'm scared of my wife." The president's quip about first lady Michelle Obama was picked up on an open microphone on Monday as he spoke to a U.N. official at an event in New York. Obama said he had probably not had a cigarette in six years. He is known to chew Nicorette gum to reduce the craving for nicotine. (Reporting By Steve Holland; Editing by Xavier Briand)