The White House says President Barack Obama, who is honorary president of the Boy Scouts of America, opposes the youth organization's policy of excluding gays as members and adult leaders.



The Irving, Texas-based Boy Scouts say they respect Obama's opinion and believe that "good people" can disagree on the subject and still work together to "accomplish the common good."



Last month, after a confidential two-year review, the Scouts reaffirmed their longstanding policy, which has been the target of numerous protest campaigns.



For three weeks, the White House didn't comment on the Scouts' decision. On Wednesday, the press office told The Associated Press that Obama believes the Boy Scouts is a valuable organization and that he opposes discrimination in all forms -- including the Scouts' policy.