John Sununu got edgy with the president doing a conference call on behalf of the Romney campaign Tuesday.

The president clearly demonstrated that he has absolutely no idea how the economy functions... I wish this president would learn how to be an American.

Sununu walked back the remarks later in the call.

What I thought I said but what I didn’t say is the president has to learn the American formula for creating business.” Later, he told CNN, “frankly, I made a mistake. I shouldn't have used those words. And I apologize for using those words.”

Chris Matthews, always quick to play the race card, pounced.