President Barack Obama paid a visit to The Tonight Show on Thursday, where he jokingly discussed everything from the AIG bailout and March Madness to the pending arrival of the long-awaited White House dog.

President Obama got chummy with The Tonight Show’s Jay Leno, telling the host that Washington is “a little like ‘American Idol’ ” and his bowling skills are of “Special Olympics” caliber.

Tveered away from politics and the nation’s crippling economy and charter into more personal terrority during the 35-minute interview, asking things like, “How cool is it to fly on Air Force One?” and when Obama daughters Sasha and Malia would get their pet dog.

Even before the taped show aired, The White House issued a statement about the Special Olympic quip.

“The president made an offhand remark making fun of his own bowling that was in no way intended to disparage the Special Olympics. He thinks that the Special Olympics are a wonderful program that gives an opportunity to shine to people with disabilities from around the world.”