Michelle Obama to skip Trump's inauguration as she refuses to 'pretend for protocol's sake', says source

WASHINGTON, DC: Former first lady Michelle Obama will not be present at the inauguration ceremony of President-elect Donald Trump on January 20, a spokesperson for her and her husband, former president Barack Obama​ announced earlier this week.

According to a report published by People on Wednesday, January 15, an insider source has revealed why Michelle was willing to break protocol, claiming that she was beyond wearing a 'fake smile' for someone she considers 'a threat to American democracy.'

Why does Michelle Obama plan to be absent from Trump's inauguration?

The source close to Michelle Obama shared that Trump's history of attacking the Obama family and derogatory comments about people of color have led to lowering her opinions of him.

"There's no overstating her feelings about (Trump). She's not one to plaster on a pleasant face and pretend for protocol's sake," they stated. "Michelle doesn't do anything because it's expected or it's protocol or it's tradition."

It is customary for former presidents and their spouses to be present at presidential inaugurations. However, Trump broke the tradition when he decided to stay away from the inauguration of his successor Joe Biden in 2021.

Speaking of the two terms that the Obamas were in the White House, the source noted, "She (Michelle) served in the public eye and did all the public good that she could for eight years as first lady. You'll see her when she has a project or cause to promote but she doesn't feel the need to be a public figure anymore."

The upcoming inauguration would be the second official gathering of presidents and first ladies that Michelle will not be attending this month. She remained absent from the state funeral of former president Jimmy Carter on January 9.

Barack Obama was present at the Washington National Cathedral for the service and seated next to Trump, and the two were seen engaged in cordial conversation.

Internet cheers for Michelle Obama

Netizens were all for Michelle Obama being unapologetic and sticking to her values by skipping Trump's inauguration. They also justified her actions by recalling how Trump had skipped Biden's inauguration himself. The following tweets demonstrate their takes.

"Michelle Obama is doing the right thing! In 2025.. who cares about the optics. Standing on principles should be commended," wrote a person.

"If you’re upset about Michelle Obama’s decision not to attend Donald Trump’s inauguration, wait until I tell you about the time Donald Trump refused to accept the results of the election he lost, plotted a coup & incited an insurrection before deciding not to attend Joe Biden’s," shared another.

"Michelle Obama has zero f**ks left to give," quipped a third.

"Loving Michelle Obama’s 2025 Energy," noted a fourth.

"Michelle Obama understood the assignment," cheered a fifth.

"Michelle Obama respects herself and has standards; therefore, she will not pretend to sit through the inauguration of someone she believes is unfit for the position," stated yet another.

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.