White House says Obama 'hopeful' he can work with House Speaker Ryan

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The White House on Thursday said President Barack Obama is hopeful he can work with new U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Paul Ryan. White House spokesman Josh Earnest said Obama called Ryan to wish him well on his new leadership position. Earnest said Obama respects Ryan despite their "significant policy differences." (Reporting by Julia Edwards; Editing by Bill Trott)