When Donald Trump took office for a second term, his inauguration was attended by several prominent political figures, including former President Barack Obama. Notably, Michelle Obama, his wife, was absent, fueling speculations about a possible separation.
Michelle also missed attending the funeral of Jimmy Carter, which drew attention at the time.
As a guest on Sophia Bush’s podcast, “Work in Progress,” Michelle Obama talked about adjusting to life after her daughters moved out. She expressed feeling a newfound freedom, stating, “Life is whatever I want. It’s liberating being an ’empty nester.’ For the first time, all my decisions are for me.”
She also shared her thoughts on societal expectations of women, saying, “Many couldn’t imagine I was making a choice purely for myself, and assumed my husband and I were divorcing.”
Michelle Obama Explains Her Inauguration Absence on Podcast IMO
In an episode of the podcast she co-hosts with her brother, Michelle Obama candidly revealed the actual reason behind her absence from Trump’s second inauguration. “It started with not having anything to wear,” she confessed. “I usually have an outfit ready for any event – funerals included. I almost always travel with clothes just in case something comes up.”
Michelle explained that her absence was misconstrued, leading to rumors about trouble in her marriage. She recounted, “When I decided I wouldn’t attend, I had to inform my team. I hadn’t even bothered to have a dress ready.”
The decision drew significant attention and speculation. Addressing this on the podcast, she stated, “My choice to skip the inauguration, along with decisions I made earlier this year, received much scrutiny. People couldn’t fathom I’d say no for reasons other than a marital crisis.”
She shared with actress Taraji P. Henson, “It took immense strength to choose what felt right for me, even if it was interpreted as wrong by others.”
This decision, like others throughout her life, reflects her journey toward making choices that prioritize her wellbeing over public expectation.
