Michelle Obama will not attend President-Elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, though her husband, former President Barack Obama, is confirmed to attend. A statement from their office confirmed Michelle’s absence. Former President George W. Bush and former First Lady Laura Bush will also be present at the ceremony.
Michelle Obama has attended every inauguration since 2008, including Trump’s first in 2017. In 2023, she reflected on her experience at his inauguration, expressing how difficult it was to see the lack of diversity on stage. She shared on The Light Podcast that she cried afterward, holding back emotions during her time in the White House.
This comes after a viral moment between Barack Obama and Donald Trump, who were seen having a friendly conversation at a recent event, while other former first ladies, including Melania Trump and Laura Bush, were present as well.