Michelle Obama Is Setting Boundaries — Even if It Fuels Divorce Rumors

Until they effortlessly shut it down with a loving Instagram tribute, social media was abuzz with speculation that Barack and Michelle Obama are getting a divorce. X thought it, TikTok thought it, even some news outlets were fueling the rumors. However, the former First Lady might just be giving us the best lesson in putting your own needs first. When they go low, we can stay out of it.

The rumors of an impending Obamas divorce stem, of course, from Michelle’s notable absence from events that may cause her to cross paths with President-elect Donald Trump.

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Michelle didn’t join her husband at Jimmy Carter’s funeral on Jan. 7, where Trump, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and President Joe Biden were joined by their wives. Michelle also won’t be in attendance at Trump’s Jan. 20 inauguration, leaving Barack to attend alone.

Whether Michelle is deliberately avoiding Trump or not, we do not know. But if this is about refusing to welcome in an administration headed by a convicted felon that the Obamas have been vocal against, Michelle is protecting her peace.

Michelle didn’t give a reason when reps confirmed that Barack would attend Monday’s event alone but reports speculate that she’s not interested in welcoming Trump back into the White House, as she had to do back in 2017.

“There’s no overstating her feelings about [Trump]. She’s not one to plaster on a pleasant face and pretend for protocol’s sake,” a source told People. “Michelle doesn’t do anything because it’s expected or it’s protocol or it’s tradition.”

“She served in the public eye and did all the public good that she could for eight years as first lady,” the source added. “You’ll see her when she has a project or cause to promote but she doesn’t feel the need to be a public figure anymore.”

Of course, Michelle’s distance from all things Trump is not without consequences.

The Obamas Are Facing Divorce Rumors

Despite speculation caused by Barack’s recent solo appearances and Michelle’s inauguration absence, Barack and Michelle are not headed for a divorce, as the former President made clear in a Jan. 17 tribute to his wife for her birthday.

“Happy birthday to the love of my life,” Barack wrote alongside a photo of him holding hands with his wife of 32 years. “You fill every room with warmth, wisdom, humor, and grace – and you look good doing it. I’m so lucky to be able to take on life’s adventures with you. Love you!”

Until then, the couple were last seen together at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago back in August and anyone paying attention to that appearance could have predicted that Michelle might not be too interested in seeing the President-elect.

Aside from championing the candidacy of Vice President Kamala Harris, Michelle didn’t mince her words when she attacked the Republican nominee’s “ugly, misogynistic, racist lies.” The speech was well received at the time but now Michelle is putting her words into action by refusing to stick with the status quo and follow the conventions expected of a former first lady.

Michelle’s Absence From Trump’s Inauguration Marks a New Era

Since Trump’s first term, which succeeded Michelle’s time as First Lady, Michelle has been steadily ramping up her own career.

After eight years of fulfilling her duties as First Lady with the kind of unassuming loyalty exhibited by the women who came before her, 2017 onwards has been all about Michelle forging an identity beyond that of a President’s wife. She has authored three books, spearheaded her and Barack’s production company, Higher Ground, and expanded her philanthropic efforts.

Yet, Michelle’s apparent refusal to be in the same room as Trump feels like a more explicit expression of her refusal to be held back by the obligations that come with life as a politicians husband. Barack must, like other former Presidents, act accordingly. He must sit with his former political rivals, shaking hands and showing respect. But why should Michelle?

Before you go, click to see Michelle Obama’s fashion evolution after the White House.

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