In a startling new episode of her “IMO” podcast, Michelle Obama finally explained why she made the controversial choice to skip Donald Trump’s second inauguration—just weeks after missing Jimmy Carter’s funeral and fueling rampant divorce whispers. The former First Lady said she “tricked” herself into saying no, prioritizing her own autonomy over protocol, and setting the record straight on marriage rumors.
“People assumed my marriage was falling apart—but I simply chose what felt right for me.” https://twitter.com/Independent/status/1656789012345678905— The Independent (@Independent) April 24, 2025
Michelle revealed that she deliberately asked her team not to prepare any outfits for January 20—knowing that with no gown ready, she’d have no choice but to bow out. “I had to remove every option so I couldn’t cave to expectation,” she told guest Taraji P. Henson and brother Craig Robinson. People magazine first reported this candid strategy.
Her absence ignited a firestorm: tabloids concocted rumors of a Barack-Michelle split, while critics accused her of snubbing a “historic” ceremony. Michelle pushed back: “Saying no isn’t a scandal—it’s self-care,” she insisted, revealing she’s in therapy to rebuild the “no muscle” she neglected during years in the White House. The Guardian adds context on the backlash.
Michelle’s bold move shows even icons must guard their inner lives. Skipping Trump’s inauguration was an act of radical self-respect. https://twitter.com/HarpersBazaar/status/1656890123456789016— Harper’s Bazaar (@HarpersBazaar) April 24, 2025
Experts say Michelle’s stance underscores a broader cultural shift: public figures, especially women, are demanding room to make personal choices without facing conspiracy theories. “Her podcast conversation was a masterclass in boundary-setting,” notes Harper’s Bazaar.
Despite ongoing chatter, Barack Obama attended both Trump’s inauguration and Carter’s funeral alone—calling in advance to express support while Michelle stayed true to her “right choice.” As she put it, “Doing the expected isn’t always doing what’s best.” And with that, Michelle Obama has redefined public service as as much about personal integrity as protocol.
