WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Republican presidential hopeful Tommy Thompson apologized for telling a Jewish group Monday evening that making money is "part of the Jewish tradition."

"I'm in the private sector and for the first time in my life I'm earning money" Thompson told the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism. "You know that's sort of part of the Jewish tradition,. and I do not find anything wrong with that. I enjoy that."

After finishing his speech, Thompson, a former Wisconsin governor, was made aware that there were concerns about his opening remarks. He returned to the podium to apologize.

"What I was referring to ladies and gentlemen is the accomplishments of the Jewish religion and the Jewish people," Thompson said. "You have been outstanding business people, and I compliment you for that. And if anybody took what I said wrong, I apologize. I may have mischaracterized it. You are very successful. I applaud you for that."

A spokesman for the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism still said the group was happy that Thompson addressed the group.

"We were glad he came to speak to us. We're pleased he made time in his schedule," Spokesman Mark Pelavin said.