By Michelle Obama has firmly rejected the idea of running for president, calling the notion “unthinkable.” Speaking on the Not Gonna Lie podcast with Kylie Kelce, the former first lady explained that people who ask her about a presidential run fail to understand the deep personal sacrifices families make when a parent is in political office. She emphasized that the impact on children, in particular, is a major reason she’s not interested in entering the political arena.
MICHELLE OBAMA — I WILL NEVER RUN FOR PRESIDENT.pic.twitter.com/57K4ckxMkE
— Citizen Free Press (@CitizenFreePres) March 26, 2025
This isn’t a new position for Obama. In the summer of 2024, as concerns grew within the Democratic Party about President Joe Biden’s re-election campaign, influential donors encouraged her to consider stepping in. At the time, she was the only Democrat polling ahead of Donald Trump in a hypothetical race. Still, she declined those calls, staying true to her long-held stance of avoiding electoral politics.
Despite her enduring popularity—which often exceeds that of active politicians—Obama has never shown interest in holding office. Her recent comments reinforce her consistent message: public life comes at a high personal cost, one she’s not willing to make her family pay.
Her criticisms of Donald Trump remained sharp in the interview, noted The Hill. She has openly condemned his role in spreading the false “birther” conspiracy about her husband, former President Barack Obama. Michelle Obama also skipped Trump’s 2017 inauguration and has repeatedly accused him of using fear and racial division for political gain. During a Democratic National Convention speech, she described how Trump’s narrow worldview made him uncomfortable with successful, educated Black individuals like herself and her husband.
Last month, the Obamas worked to shut down rumors that they would be going through a divorce. The former president and First Lady celebrated Valentine’s Day by posting loving tributes to each other on social media, sending a clear message about the strength of their relationship and gently shutting down ongoing rumors of marital trouble.
The Obamas, who have been married for over 30 years, each shared the same affectionate selfie—a close, cozy shot with their heads together and arms wrapped around one another. Barack, now 63, captioned the photo on Twitter with a note: “Thirty-two years together and you still take my breath away. Happy Valentine’s Day, @MichelleObama!” Michelle, 61, responded on Instagram with equal warmth, writing, “If there’s one person I can always count on, it’s you, @BarackObama. You’re my rock. Always have been. Always will be. Happy Valentine’s Day, honey!”
Though the photo didn’t have a timestamp, the timing and affectionate tone seemed carefully chosen, serving as a quiet but clear response to recent tabloid stories suggesting a rift between them. Speculation had intensified after Barack was seen attending a few public events solo, including the funeral of former President Jimmy Carter. However, insiders close to the Obamas have repeatedly stated that the rumors are unfounded and simply reflect Michelle’s long-standing preference for privacy and staying out of the public spotlight.
Since 1992, Barack and Michelle Obama have been viewed as a model of lasting partnership. They’re also proud parents to two daughters, Malia, 26, and Sasha, 23.
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