Former First Lady Michelle Obama has finally explained why she chose to skip President Donald Trump’s second inauguration—and according to her, it wasn’t about politics. Speaking on her podcast, she claimed it was simply an act of “self-care” and “setting boundaries.”
While her absence from the historic event sparked widespread speculation at the time, Obama said her decision wasn’t about making a political statement or sending a message—it was about focusing on herself.
“I didn’t even prepare an outfit for the event,” she said, adding that the lack of wardrobe planning was her way of mentally and emotionally opting out of attending. “That’s how I protected myself from changing my mind.”
Obama framed her decision as an example of practicing what she called the “art of saying no,” suggesting that sometimes it’s okay to skip out on major national events if it means prioritizing one’s personal comfort.
Critics, however, have pointed out the irony of her explanation. Skipping the inauguration of a sitting U.S. president—particularly the peaceful transition of power in a democratic republic—is rarely seen as a neutral or apolitical decision. For many Americans, especially those who supported President Trump, Obama’s absence sent a clear message of division and disrespect.
Yet Obama insisted her move wasn’t political or marital. She addressed rumors that her decision reflected tensions in her marriage to former President Barack Obama, calling that speculation false. “There was nothing wrong in my marriage,” she said. “This was about me.”
Still, her remarks did little to ease the perception that her absence was part of a broader pattern among Democratic elites who refused to recognize Trump’s presidency. Michelle Obama, Hillary Clinton, and other prominent figures have frequently voiced public criticism of Trump, and many have participated in media and book deals that directly or indirectly attacked his administration.
Obama concluded that her decision to stay home was about setting an example for her daughters and young women, encouraging them to prioritize their own needs. But critics argue that public servants and former first ladies are expected to rise above personal feelings and honor national traditions—especially one as foundational as the peaceful transfer of power.
As the nation continues to reckon with political division, Michelle Obama’s explanation adds yet another chapter to the ongoing clash between old political norms and the new era of partisanship.