Why Isn't Michelle Obama at Donald Trump's Inauguration?

Former first lady Michelle Obama chose not to attend Donald Trump‘s inauguration, sending what some insiders say is a pointed message about her continued disapproval of the President-elect. “She meant every word she said on the campaign trail with every fiber of her being,” a source told The Hill in a report published Jan. 15. “And she’s no hypocrite.”

Keep reading to find out more about why Michelle Obama skipped Trump’s swearing-in ceremony. 

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Why isn’t Michelle Obama at Donald Trump’s inauguration?

The former first lady has not provided an explanation for why she decided to miss the inauguration, but several reports have suggested it has something to do with her dislike of the 45th (and now 47th) president. 

“There’s no overstating her feelings about [Trump],” a source told People. “She’s not one to plaster on a pleasant face and pretend for protocol’s sake. Michelle doesn’t do anything because it’s expected or it’s protocol or it’s tradition.”

Prior to the inauguration, Mrs. Obama missed former President Jimmy Carter‘s state funeral, where she would apparently have been seated next to President-elect Trump. Her advisers said it was due to a scheduling conflict. 

Related: Remembering Jimmy Carter: Meet the Former President’s Children and Grandchildren

Are Michelle and Barack Obama getting a divorce?

No. When news broke that the former first lady would not attend the inauguration after also missing Jimmy Carter’s funeral, X lit up with rumors that the Obamas were headed for divorce. But they were just that—rumors. 

On Jan. 17, 2025, the former president wished his wife a happy birthday on Instagram, calling her the “love of [his] life.” 

“You fill every room with warmth, wisdom, humor, and grace – and you look good doing it,” he wrote. “I’m so lucky to be able to take on life’s adventures with you. Love you!”

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A post shared by Barack Obama (@barackobama)

Is Michelle Obama the only first lady to skip an inauguration?

Although it’s tradition for former presidents and their families to gather at the Capitol to watch the incoming commander-in-chief take the oath of office, Mrs. Obama is not the first former first lady to miss the event. Just four years ago, Donald and Melania Trump missed Joe Biden‘s inauguration after President Trump refused to accept the election results. Someone send a friendly reminder of that to Kid Rock.

Related: Kid Rock Has a Bold Descriptor for Michelle Obama for Skipping the Inauguration