Story highlights Hillary Clinton responded with more contrition than she has in the past when asked about her email controversy

Clinton also called for more spending for government programs that provide capital and credit to rural business owners, farmers and ranchers

Ankeny, Iowa (CNN) Hillary Clinton on Wednesday reversed course in her handling of questions about her private email server when she was secretary of state.

In recent weeks, she has either dismissed the controversy or joked about it. But on Wednesday she said she had made a mistake.

"My use of personal email was allowed by the State Department. It clearly wasn't the best choice. I should have used two emails -- one personal, one for work -- and I take responsibility for that decision," she said when asked at an Iowa event.

The answer shows much more contrition than she has of late, even acknowledging that she understands why people care about the issue.

"Well, I know people have raised questions about my email use as secretary of state, and I understand why. I get it," she said during a press conference at a local community college.