Key Takeaways:
– Michelle Obama will not be present at Donald Trump’s second inauguration.
– Despite no official reason provided, most attribute her decision to past disagreements with Trump.
– Barack Obama, her husband, will attend the inaugural ceremonies.
– Several other personalities express support for Michelle Obama’s choice.
– The former first lady also did not attend former President Jimmy Carter’s recent memorial service due to a vacation in Hawaii.
A Surprising Announcement
The office of former first lady Michelle Obama recently disclosed she won’t be part of the audience at Donald Trump’s upcoming second inauguration. No particular reason was given for this decision. However, it is worth noting that her husband, former President Barack Obama, is confirmed to attend the 60th Inaugural Ceremonies.
A History of Disagreements and Conflicts
Throughout the years, observers have noted some tension between Michelle Obama and the soon-to-be-inaugurated President Donald Trump. This strain was utterly visible during the 2024 campaign when the incoming president employed some harsh language towards the former first lady. Such incidences make her absence from the upcoming inauguration seem less surprising.
Public Opinions and Reactions
The news spread quickly on social media, where many users, including prominent figures, voiced their views. Singer Ricky Davila professed his approval of Michelle Obama’s decision, stating on X that she was the only one who clearly understood the assignment. His sentiment was echoed by MSNBC host Joy-Ann Reid, who posted on Bluesky her everlasting affinity for Michelle Obama, endorsing the former first lady’s choice.
In addition, Larry Tenney, a political science lecturer at the University of California, Irvine, questioned if other former first ladies like Hillary Clinton and Laura Bush would follow Michelle Obama’s lead. Tenney cleverly quipped on Bluesky, If they go low, we RSVP ‘No.’
A Reminder of Past Events
The conversation on social media didn’t just halt at Michelle Obama’s choice. Numerous users, including LA Times columnist Jackie Calmes and designer Christopher Webb, took the opportunity to remind everyone that Donald Trump himself did not attend President Joe Biden’s 2021 inauguration. These social media posts brought back memories of the tumult following the 2020 election and Trump’s refusal to attend his predecessor’s inauguration.
Additionally, one Bluesky user, SuzyQ, voiced her solidarity with Michelle Obama. Mimicking her choice, SuzyQ declared her intent not to watch Trump’s inauguration.
Michelle Obama’s Absence from Previous Events
This isn’t the first time Michelle Obama has been absent from a significant event recently. Last week, she did not attend the memorial service for the late former President Jimmy Carter due to a vacation in Hawaii.
Despite the news about her absence causing a stir, it’s crucial to understand that the decision to attend such proceedings is a personal one. Each individual, whether a celebrity or a citizen, has the liberty to decide which events they wish to lend their presence. This basic right prevails, notwithstanding the unavoidable political undertones these choices may sometimes carry.