After Michelle Obama’s ‘explosive’ explanation a while ago, now it’s Barack Obama’s turn.
The former President of the United States of America recently took to social media to clear the air about his relationship with his wife, Michelle Obama – something that has been under the microscope for quite some time.
Wishing the former first lady on the occasion of Mother’s Day, Barack shared a photo of her with their two daughters, Malia and Sasha, adding in a heartfelt message. He wrote, "Happy Mother's Day to all the amazing moms and mother-figures! @MichelleObama, the girls and I are so lucky to have you in our lives. We love you.”
Putting the rumors to rest:
The rumors of a strain in the marital relationship between the Obamas started over a year back, and a train of events that took place earlier this year only fanned the flames.
As Michelle skipped some public events, including former president Jimmy Carter's funeral and Donald Trump's presidential inauguration, while Barack was present at those – the rumors of the alleged rift gained more momentum.
However, back in April, Michelle Obama finally broke her silence on the whispers of marital unrest during an episode of a podcast.
What did Michelle Obama say?
In one of the episodes the podcast 'Work in Progress', hosted by Sophia Bush, the former First Lady – for the first time – opened up about why she chose not to accompany Barack Obama to Trump's second inauguration. While Michelle admitted that it was a ‘hard thing’ for her to do, she also put the record straight about the rumors of trouble in her marriage with Barack.
While her husband, former President Barack Obama, attended Trump’s inaugural ceremony alongside Presidents George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and their respective spouses, Michelle chose not to go—a decision that drew widespread speculation and criticism.
The mother of two revealed how “it took everything in my power to not do the thing that was right—or that was perceived as right—but to do the thing that was right for me.” Michelle added, “That was a hard thing for me to do.”
Talking about how she arrived at the decision of not going to the ceremony, Michelle revealed that she had to "trick' herself into staying away from the ceremony.
The former First Lady shared, "It started with not having anything to wear," adding, “I’m always prepared for any funeral, anything.” She continued, “I walk around with the right dress, I travel with clothes just in case something pops off. So I was like, ‘If I’m not going to do this thing. I got to tell my team.’ I don’t even want to have a dress ready, right? Because it’s so easy to just say, 'Let me do the right thing’.”
Michelle stated that avoiding the inauguration wasn't about political or personal issues. Rather, it was one of those times when she chose to prioritise herself. She revealed that although the choice was tough, it was essential for her well-being. She explained, "I'm here really trying to own my life and intentionally practice making the choice that was right for me," adding, "It took everything in my power to not do the thing that ‘was right,’ or was perceived as right, but do the thing that was right for me.”
However, Michelle revealed – to her surprise and shock – her decision not to attend Trump’s inauguration was linked with the rumors of ‘potential collapse’ of her marital life with her husband, Barack.
Reflecting on that widespread rumor, Michelle said, "My decision to skip the inauguration — or my decision to make choices at the beginning of this year that suited me — were met with such ridicule and criticism." She added, "People couldn't believe that I was saying no for any other reason. They had to assume that my marriage was falling apart."
Earlier this month, Michelle went a step further and shared during an episode of 'The Diary of a CEO' podcast with host Steven Bartlett, "If I were having problems with my husband, everybody would know about it." She added, “I would be problem-solving in public. I'm not a martyr."
In her memoir Becoming, Michelle Obama discusses the significance of vulnerability and open communication in her marriage. She shares that she had to learn to express her feelings and be open with her husband, Barack Obama, to strengthen their relationship.
Over time, they built a partnership grounded in mutual respect and understanding. Michelle emphasizes the importance of honesty, even in moments of disagreement, to keep their connection strong. By prioritizing these values, they navigated the pressures of public life while maintaining a solid foundation at home.
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