Obama to visit Annapolis next week

Will address U.S. Senate Democrats during annual retreat

WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama will arrive in Annapolis on Wednesday to speak to U.S. Senate Democrats who plan to gather at the Westin hotel next week, the White House said Friday.

The address will not be open to the public or to reporters.

Democratic senators plan to meet in Annapolis on Tuesday and Wednesday for an annual retreat. The meeting is also largely closed to the public and reporters. Obama frequently visits the congressional retreats, such as last year's meeting of House Democrats in Cambridge.

White House spokesman Jay Carney announced the trip Friday. He did not have a preview of what Obama will discuss.

The retreats are an opportunity for each caucus to discuss strategy and messaging for the coming year in less hectic setting than the Capitol. Gov. Martin O'Malley will also host the senators for dinner at his residence.