HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Connecticut first lady Cathy Malloy has apologized for criticizing the media for scrutinizing elected officials to an extent that makes it harder to seek public office.

At a panel at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Wednesday, Malloy said the public does not appreciate those in public life. The panel was organized by Emily's List, a group that seeks to elect Democratic women who support access to abortion.

Malloy, wife of Gov. Dannel P. Malloy, said she doesn't want sympathy. But she says people often refuse to seek office because they do not want to expose their children and spouses to public scrutiny, particularly from the media.

She emailed a statement on Thursday saying the media have been fair to her and her family.