Today, Barack and Michelle Obama find themselves in the position of responding to rumors that their marriage is in trouble. The pair wed in Chicago in 1992. In recent weeks, they’ve been the subject of speculation thanks to a series of solo semi-public outings by Barack Obama. Appearances like these memorials and wedding tribute ceremonies forced conversations about their status and their important contributions.
As Michelle Obama has said, her life feels specially freeing during this stage. With their daughters now grown, Michelle feels a newfound independence. Now that Barack has left public office, she is able to fully enjoy this freedom, which she likes never before.
“This stage in life for me is the first time that I have been completely free,” she stated, reflecting on her newfound ability to make personal choices without the constraints of public expectations.
In recent months, Michelle Obama has made a habit of opting out of some of the most high-profile appearances. These meetings are often tied to her capacity as a former First Lady. Of course, these decisions have only added to the speculation surrounding her marriage. President Barack Obama at many historic events solo, such as the memorial for former President Jimmy Carter and the inauguration of President Donald Trump. Taken together, these high profile appearances have added rocket fuel to the speculation about him.
Despite the speculation, both Obamas have publicly reassured their followers of their commitment to one another. On Valentine’s Day, Barack shared a heartfelt photograph on Instagram captioned, “Thirty-two years together and you still take my breath away.” Michelle echoed his sentiment on her own account, writing, “If there’s one person I can always count on, it’s you, @BarackObama.”
In a comical exchange, Michelle laughed and poked fun at speculation that fills the air when the two aren’t spotted in public together. “I know, ’cause when we aren’t, folks think we’re divorced,” she commented. Barack humorously responded to her joke: “She took me back. It was touch and go for a while.”
Michelle also provided insight into the resilience of their relationship, stating, “There hasn’t been one moment in our marriage where I thought about quittin’ my man. And we’ve had some really hard times.” This honest admission speaks to the challenges they’ve endured as a couple and celebrates the depth of their connection.
