Michelle Obama, known for her authenticity and unfiltered honesty, has decided not to attend Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration, and her absence is making waves. While former President Obama will attend the event, Michelle is choosing to sit this one out—a move that many believe is deliberate.
In a statement to the Associated Press, the Office of Barack and Michelle Obama confirmed the former First Lady’s decision, stating that she “will not attend the upcoming inauguration.” Unlike her husband, who has often played the statesman role, Michelle has been vocal about her distaste for Trump’s presidency and policies, making this latest move anything but surprising.
A Deliberate Snub?
Sources close to the Obamas suggest that Michelle’s decision is deeply intentional. “She’s never been fake, and she’s never been phony,” a source told Page Six. “She’s always been very deliberate about where and how she shows up.” This aligns with Michelle’s previous actions, where her absence often speaks louder than words.
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The source added, “She doesn’t have to unify around [Trump]. Her silence and absence make her stance crystal clear.” Michelle’s choice not to attend signals her rejection of what Trump’s presidency represents, a sentiment she’s expressed publicly on numerous occasions.
Not Her First Protest
Michelle’s decision to skip Trump’s inauguration isn’t her first act of defiance against his administration. While she reluctantly attended his 2017 inauguration, her disdain for Trump’s leadership has only grown more evident over the years. During the 2020 Democratic National Convention, Michelle made her feelings abundantly clear, criticizing Trump’s “limited, narrow view of the world” and accusing him of fostering division and fear.
“For years, Donald Trump did everything in his power to try to make people fear us,” Michelle said. “His leadership demeans and cheapens our politics.” Her words reflected a deep-seated frustration with Trump’s policies and rhetoric, particularly his role in perpetuating the racist “birther” conspiracy against her husband.
A Stark Contrast
While Michelle’s decision to skip the event is being applauded by many, it also starkly contrasts with Barack Obama’s approach. The former president was recently seen chatting amicably with Trump at Jimmy Carter’s funeral, which raised eyebrows given their contentious history. Michelle’s absence from that event, attributed to an “extended holiday vacation” in Hawaii, further underscores her unwillingness to play along with political niceties.
A Broader Statement
Michelle’s absence from the inauguration is not just about personal feelings. It’s a broader statement about the type of leadership she believes the country needs. Her decision is being praised by those who see it as a refusal to normalize Trump’s presidency and an act of solidarity with the values she’s long championed.
With other heavyweight political figures like George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and Joe Biden expected to attend, Michelle’s absence will undoubtedly be felt. But for those who know and admire her, it’s just another example of her unwavering commitment to authenticity and principles.
Michelle Obama’s decision to skip Trump’s inauguration may stir controversy, but it also reinforces her reputation as someone who refuses to compromise her values. In a political landscape often dominated by performative gestures, Michelle’s choice to stay away sends a clear and resounding message: she won’t fake unity for the sake of appearances.
Featured image via screengrab
