U.S. President Barack Obama weighs in on NHL lockout

LOS ANGELES, – Barack Obama is urging the NHL and its players to resolve their labour dispute.

During an appearance on “The Tonight Show” with Jay Leno on Tuesday, the U.S. president took time to answer questions submitted from viewers and the studio audience.

One fan from Los Angeles asked Obama if he could pull any strings to end the NHL’s work stoppage.

“You know, I do have a comment on this,” said Obama, who is campaigning for re-election. “Every time these things happen I just want to remind the owners and players: You guys make money because you’ve got a whole bunch of fans out there who are working really hard — they buy tickets, they’re watching on TV.

“You all should be able to figure this out. Get this done. The fans deserve it.”

The NHL lockout has lasted 40 days. All regular-season games through Nov. 1 have been wiped off the schedule, with more cancellations expected to come before the end of the week. No talks are scheduled.

The U.S. presidential election is Nov. 6.