Former First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama, has addressed swirling rumours about trouble in her marriage to former President Barack Obama, stating that her recent absence from public events is a result of personal choices, not marital issues.
Speculation about a possible separation had been fuelled by her absence at several high-profile events, including the funeral of former President Jimmy Carter and Donald Trump’s inauguration.
According to the BBC, Mrs Obama pushed back against the assumptions, emphasizing her autonomy.
“I’m a grown woman and I’m at a point in my life where I can control my own schedule,” she said. “But that’s the thing we as women struggle with—disappointing people. So much so that this year, people couldn’t even fathom that I was making a choice for myself. They had to assume my husband and I are divorcing.”
Michelle Obama noted that while her decision to step back from some public appearances may have surprised many, it was simply about putting her well-being first.
“I chose to do what was best for me—not what I had to do, not what others expected of me,” she explained.
Despite reducing her public engagements, the former First Lady made it clear that she remains committed to her causes. “I still give speeches, I’m still working on projects, and I still deeply care about girls’ education,” she added.
The Obamas, who celebrated their 32nd wedding anniversary in October 2024, have often spoken openly about the challenges they faced during Barack Obama’s political career. In her bestselling memoir Becoming, Michelle detailed the strains that life in the White House placed on their relationship.
