In a candid conversation with Hamilton College President Steven Tepper, former U.S. President Barack Obama, 63, opened up about the challenges he faced in his marriage to Michelle Obama during his tenure in the White House. He admitted that his two consecutive terms from 2009 to 2017 had put a strain on their relationship, leading to a “deep deficit” with his wife. Obama shared that he has been making efforts to mend the relationship by engaging in enjoyable activities with his wife.
Obama has previously hinted at the toll his presidency took on his marriage. In a May 2023 interview, he expressed relief at having more time to spend with Michelle after leaving the White House. He also praised his wife for her forgiving nature towards his shortcomings.
Michelle Obama, 61, has also been open about the ups and downs in their marriage. In December 2022, she confessed that there was a decade-long period when she found it difficult to tolerate her husband, especially when their daughters, Malia, 26, and Sasha, 23, were young. However, she clarified that her statement was not meant to be catty.
The former first lady has been vocal about the realities of marriage, stating that it is never a 50/50 partnership. She explained that there are times when one partner contributes more than the other, but that’s part of the commitment. She also emphasized that despite the challenges, she would choose their 30-year marriage over a decade of hardship.
In an April 2023 interview, Michelle Obama stressed the importance of discussing the difficulties of marriage openly, especially for the benefit of young people who might give up on marriage due to these challenges. She acknowledged that the compromises required in a marriage are not always enjoyable.
The Obamas, who got married in October 1992, have recently been the subject of divorce rumors. These speculations began when Barack Obama attended several political events alone, including former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral and President Trump’s inauguration. However, insiders have dismissed these rumors, stating that Michelle Obama has simply distanced herself from the political scene in Washington, D.C.
Michelle Obama has also addressed the online gossip about her personal life. She advised against letting the negativity from social media affect one’s life, emphasizing that many of these comments come from people who don’t know her personally and are often based on false information.