Michelle Obama speaks in Charlotte, Greensboro

Greensboro, N.C. — Michelle Obama said voters need to decide this election by examining the issues, not because they like a candidate or think "she's cute."

Obama made the remark at women's round-table on economic issues in Charlotte Thursday morning. The crowd roared at her remark disparaging voters who might cast a ballot based on a women's look, a clear jab at Republican vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin.

Obama tried to clarify her remark with a smile, saying she was talking about herself.

Obama was visiting Charlotte and Greensboro as part of a nationwide campaign effort, "Women for the Change we Need.”

Obama said her husband, Democratic candidate Barack Obama, is the only candidate to deal with women's issues. She focused on equal pay, health care, affordable college and recruiting new teachers.

“This is the choice we face. These policies – Barack’s policies – are the change we need," Obama said. "In the end, Barack is determined to change Washington, so that instead of just talking about family values, we actually have policies that value families.

"That’s why I’m here today. I’m here for my daughters’ future—and all our children’s future. They’re my stake in this election,” Obama continued.

In Charlotte, Obama led a round-table discussion with four North Carolina women about economic issues.

She will speak at the Carolina Theater in Greensboro as part of a "Women for Obama" rally. Doors open at 1:30 p.m.

Tickets are free but required and can be picked up at Obama campaign offices in Greensboro, High Point and Charlotte.

The last time she was in North Carolina was before the Democratic primary in May.