Washington, April 10, 2025: Rumors have been rife for some time about the relationship of former US first couple Barack and Michelle Obama. Michelle’s distance from public forums and Barack’s appearance alone in some big events had intensified the discussion that whether the couple is on the path of divorce? But now Michelle Obama herself has come forward and put an end to these speculations. In actress Sophia Bush’s podcast ‘Work in Progress’, she not only dismissed these rumors, but also shared a new perspective on her life.

What was the basis of the rumors?

Michelle’s absence at President Donald Trump’s swearing-in ceremony and former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral in January this year raised questions in people’s minds. Barack was seen alone in these events, after which divorce rumors started gaining momentum on social media. Some even claimed that Michelle is completely staying away from politics. But Michelle completely rejected all this and said, “All this is just speculation. I took some decisions for myself, which people may not understand.” “I am choosing for myself”

In the podcast, Michelle spoke in a very simple and clear manner. She said, “After leaving the White House, in the last eight years, I looked at my life afresh. My daughters, Malia and Sasha, have grown up now. Now I have time for myself. I left some things, started something new.” She further added, “I did what I felt was right. I removed from my calendar what I did not like. People could not understand this and assumed that there is something wrong between me and Barack.”

On this occasion, Michelle also touched upon a common dilemma of women. “We women are often afraid of disappointing others. But I decided that now I will put myself first. People could not accept my decision and spread rumors of divorce. I no longer pay attention to these things. My decisions are for my own good.” Barack-Michelle relationship: A long journey
Barack and Michelle met in Chicago in the 1980s when both were studying law. Love blossomed and they got married in 1992. They had a happy married life with two daughters, Malia and Sasha. Barack became the President of the United States in 2009 and served two consecutive terms. But there were some difficulties behind this wonderful journey. Michelle had revealed in her book ‘Becoming’ that loneliness and stress during the White House days took a toll on their relationship. There was a time when the two came close to divorce. However, they did not give up and saved their relationship.
Message of solidarity amid rumours
Amid speculations of divorce, Barack and Michelle have shown their solidarity on many occasions. On Valentine’s Day this year, Barack wrote an emotional post for Michelle, “32 years together and you still take my breath away.” Michelle also replied, “You are my support, always have been and will be.” These messages were a befitting reply to those who were questioning their relationship.

Distance from politics, not from mission

Michelle also made it clear that she has not completely withdrawn from politics. “I am still working for the education and social development of girls. I give speeches, focus on projects,” she said. She remained active in the 2024 elections as well. Speaking in support of Kamala Harris at a rally in Michigan, she said, “Our future cannot be handed over to someone like Trump, who does not understand us at all.”

What do experts say?

Political analyst Ramesh Thakur believes that this clarity of Michelle is enough to calm the rumors. “She made it clear that this is her personal decision, not evidence of sourness in the relationship. This is a sign of a mature couple who respects each other’s freedom.”

The way forward

This statement of Michelle is not only an answer to questions on her personal life, but also shows that she now wants to live on her own terms. This step of theirs can inspire those women who are hesitant to take decisions for themselves. Barack and Michelle’s relationship, despite its ups and downs, remains an example. Now all eyes are on how this couple takes their mission forward in the future.