Michelle Obama’s Consecutive Absences Spark Divorce Rumors with Barack Obama
Former First Lady Michelle Obama has announced that she will not attend President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, marking the second major public event she will miss in a row.
Her absence, following her decision to skip former President Jimmy Carter’s state funeral on January 9, has sparked speculation online about possible tension between her and former President Barack Obama, Nicki Swift reported.
The inauguration, set to usher in Trump’s second term, will include numerous political figures, including former presidents, first ladies, and vice presidents. Barack Obama is confirmed to attend, while Michelle’s absence has fueled rumors of discord within the Obama household.
At Jimmy Carter’s state funeral, held at the Washington National Cathedral, Michelle’s absence was noted despite the attendance of high-profile figures such as Trump, Melania Trump, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Joe Biden, Jill Biden, and Kamala Harris.
While Michelle attended former First Lady Rosalynn Carter’s funeral in November 2023, her representatives explained that she could not attend Jimmy Carter’s funeral due to a scheduling conflict. “Mrs. Obama sends her thoughts and prayers to the Carter family, and everyone who loved and learned from the remarkable former President,” her representative said in a statement.
Now, her decision to miss Trump’s inauguration has reignited rumors, with fans speculating on social media about potential marital issues between the Obamas. Some even suggested the possibility of a divorce, though no official evidence supports such claims.
In a statement released by the Obamas’ representatives, it was confirmed, “Former President Barack Obama is confirmed to attend the 60th Inaugural Ceremonies. Former First Lady Michelle Obama will not attend the upcoming inauguration.” No explanation for Michelle’s absence was provided.
Michelle has previously spoken candidly about the challenges of marriage, revealing in a 2022 interview with Revolt that there were years when she “couldn’t stand” her husband. “People think I’m being catty by saying this. It’s like, there were 10 years where I couldn’t stand my husband, and guess when it happened? When those kids were little,” she shared, reflecting on the challenges of raising their daughters, Malia (26) and Sasha (23).
While Michelle’s absence from these events has sparked speculation, her representatives maintain she remains supportive of her husband and continues to focus on her work as a humanitarian and public figure.