On ABC News’ “This Week,” host George Stephanopoulos asked President Obama if it “frustrates” him when some think that people are against his ideas because of his race.

“Race is such a volatile issue in this society,” said Obama, who insisted that government’s involvement in health care and other avenues is “probably the biggest driver of the vitriol right now.”

“This isn’t a radical plan,” added Obama, who also criticized the media for “encouraging” criticism of Obama’s policies that are “rude”.

Stephanopoulos also asked Obama – three times – about ACORN funding. “This is not the biggest issue facing the country,” he said. “It’s not something I’m paying a lot of attention to.”