Comedian in chief Barack Obama revealed a deep personal secret on CBS’ “Late Show With David Letterman” – he’s always been black.

Asked by Letterman if he believes racism factored into recent criticism over health care reform, Obama deadpanned: “First of all, I think it’s important to realize that I was actually black before the election.”

“Really?” Letterman replied as the audience roared with laughter.

“This is true,” said a smiling Obama.

Turning earnest, Obama dismissed the notion that racism is at the heart of the criticism surrounding his plan to overhaul the nation’s health system.

“The American people, I think, gave me this extraordinary honor,” he said, referring to the presidency, “and that tells you, I think, a lot about where the country’s at.” 

Obama’s appearance on “Letterman” marks the first time a sitting President has been on the show. He appeared with Jay Leno on NBC’s “The Tonight Show” earlier this year. 

Obama is in New York City this week for the United Nations General Assembly.

The President specifically apologized to New Yorkers for the traffic congestion that the world confab always brings. 

“I know traffic is bad for New Yorkers, so I apologize in advance for that,” he said 

After the show, Obama slipped into a Manhattan church gym to play some basketball with his aides.

 The President’s decision to appear on “Letterman” comes amid his media blitz aimed at building support for health care reform.

But Obama insisted he decided to appear on the show because he wanted to see the heart-shaped potato an audience member had brought.

The woman ended up giving the President the potato as a gift. When Letterman asked Obama if he could get it into the Smithsonian, the commander in chief replied, “You know, I think I could.”