Former First Lady Michelle Obama has sparked a wave of social media backlash after discussing the financial challenges of living in the White House during an episode of the podcast "The Diary of a CEO." In the podcast, she explained that while the residence itself is free, the expenses associated with food and travel can be significant. "How do you raise kids in the White House? It’s dangerous," she said, referencing the threats faced by her family during Barack Obama’s presidency. "It’s expensive to live in the White House, as many people don’t know."
Michelle Obama elaborated on the costs, noting that while the housing and staff are covered, every meal must be paid for, as well as travel for her children if they are not accompanying the President. "You’re paying for every bit of food that you eat, you know, you’re not paying for housing and the staff in it … but everything, even travel, if you’re not traveling with the president," she explained. This revelation prompted criticism online, with many questioning how the Obamas could struggle financially given their substantial wealth.
Critics pointed out that Barack Obama earned $400,000 a year during his presidency and that the couple entered the White House with a net worth of $1.3 million. Today, their net worth is estimated to be around $70 million. One social media user highlighted this discrepancy, asking, "How are they struggling so much?" The backlash was further fueled by right-wing commentator Megyn Kelly, who ridiculed Michelle Obama’s claims of financial hardship by contrasting them with Donald Trump’s hospitality during his presidency. Kelly remarked on how Trump made hosting guests seem effortless, in stark contrast to the challenges Obama described.
In addition to discussing financial issues, Michelle Obama also opened up about her parenting style during a separate episode of her podcast, "IMO," where she spoke with comedians Damon and Marlon Wayans. Reflecting on her experiences raising daughters Malia, now 26, and Sasha, now 23, she admitted to having spanked them a few times before deciding it was not an effective discipline method. "I felt silly," she said, explaining her decision to stop using corporal punishment. "I felt embarrassed" as a parent for resorting to such measures.
Despite her admission, Obama considers herself a tough-love parent, emphasizing the importance of allowing children to learn from their mistakes. She expressed concern that many parents today are too overprotective, trying to shield their children from failure, which she believes hinders their growth. "Parents are too afraid to set those kinds of boundaries," she stated, advocating for a return to more traditional parenting methods.
Furthermore, Michelle Obama addressed persistent rumors about her marriage to Barack Obama during her podcast appearances. She firmly stated that if there were any issues in their relationship, they would not be kept secret. "If I were having problems with my husband, everybody would know about it," she asserted, emphasizing her openness about personal struggles. Her brother, Craig Robinson, who co-hosts the "IMO" podcast, added a lighthearted note, joking that he would be hosting a podcast with Barack if there were marital problems.
The rumors about their marriage intensified after Michelle Obama chose to skip Donald Trump’s second inauguration in January, a decision that drew ridicule and speculation about the state of their relationship. Reflecting on this, she explained that people assumed her absence indicated marital strife. "People couldn't believe that I was saying no for any other reason. They had to assume that my marriage was falling apart," she said.
Michelle Obama described her decision to prioritize her own needs as a moment of personal growth. "I’m here really trying to own my life and intentionally practice making the choice that was right for me," she noted, highlighting her shift from meeting societal expectations to making choices that align with her values. "I think I just told myself, 'I think I've done enough of that,'" she reflected, indicating a desire to break free from the pressures of being a public figure.
In discussing the dynamics of her marriage, Obama acknowledged that her and Barack's differences actually strengthen their relationship. She described him as the opposite of a "box checker," someone who approaches life with spontaneity and creativity. "When I met Barack Obama, he showed up in my life as the opposite of a box checker, but somebody that I describe in my book as an 'ultimate swerver,'" she explained, underscoring the compatibility that arises from their contrasting personalities.
Despite the public scrutiny they have faced over the years, Michelle and Barack Obama continue to demonstrate a strong partnership grounded in mutual respect and understanding. Married in October 1992, they remain committed to supporting each other through the challenges of public life while raising their two daughters.
As Michelle Obama navigates the complexities of motherhood, marriage, and public life, her candid discussions reflect the realities many face in balancing personal and professional responsibilities. From the financial burdens of living in the White House to the challenges of parenting in today's world, her insights resonate with many, reinforcing the importance of honesty and vulnerability in public discourse.
