Michelle Obama Opens Up About Why She Chose Not to Attend Trump’s Inauguration — And She Has No Regrets
Michelle Obama is finally addressing the questions around her decision to skip President Donald Trump’s inauguration — and she’s standing firm with no regrets.
In a heartfelt chat with actress Taraji P. Henson on the IMO podcast, which Michelle co-hosts alongside her brother Craig Robinson, the former First Lady revealed that she’s learning to prioritize her own well-being, even if others don’t always understand her choices.
At 60, Michelle Obama revealed that therapy has been a game-changer, helping her embrace the power of saying “no” — even when it sparks criticism. “When I chose not to attend the inauguration, or made other decisions earlier this year that felt right for me, people immediately jumped to the worst conclusions,” she explained. “They couldn’t accept that I was simply doing what was best for myself. Instead, they assumed my marriage must be falling apart.”
The speculation reached a fever pitch when Michelle was noticeably absent not only from Trump’s inauguration but also from former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral. Despite all the rumors swirling online, she admits the choice was far from easy.
“It took every ounce of strength to resist doing what everyone expected of me and instead focus on what I truly needed,” Michelle confessed. She even took careful steps to avoid second-guessing herself at the last minute. “I deliberately didn’t have an outfit ready — because I know how easy it is to fall back into the role people expect if the clothes are hanging in the closet.”
Taraji P. Henson applauded Michelle’s courage and honesty, highlighting a truth many women face. “Too often, women become the ‘shock absorbers’ for everyone else’s needs,” she said. “We’re expected to carry the emotional weight for our families, communities, and public images. It’s draining — and it’s just not fair.”
Michelle wholeheartedly agreed, emphasizing that prioritizing herself is an ongoing journey—not just for her own well-being, but to set a powerful example for her daughters, Malia and Sasha. “If, after everything I’ve accomplished, I’m still caught up trying to prove myself to the world, what kind of message does that send to the next generation?” she reflected.
She made one thing crystal clear: setting healthy boundaries isn’t selfish—it’s essential. “I want my daughters to start practicing saying ‘no’ earlier than I did, so that boundary-setting muscle grows strong from the start,” Michelle explained.
“And guess what?” Michelle added with a smile. “The world keeps spinning even when you say no. It doesn’t fall apart just because you put yourself first for once.”
With these powerful words, Michelle Obama sends a clear message: Women owe no one an explanation for their choices. Sometimes, prioritizing yourself is the boldest, most empowering statement you can make.
