Michelle Obama has once again ruled out a presidential bid, dismissing speculation that she could be a potential candidate for 2028.
The former first lady, frequently in the public eye commenting on politics and social issues, reiterated her position during an event in Brooklyn, New York, where she appeared with Tracee Ellis Ross to promote her new book, The Look.
Referring to the 2024 election, Obama said: “As we saw in this past election, sadly, we ain’t ready. That’s why I’m like, don’t even look at me about running ‘cause you all are lying. You’re not ready for a woman.” She added, “We got a lot of growing up to do and there’s still … a lot of men who do not feel like they can be led by a woman and we saw it.”
Obama, 61, had previously made similar statements in 2016 during her husband Barack Obama’s second term, firmly stating: “I will not run for president. No, nope, not going to do it.”
She also spoke about current political concerns, noting one policy under the Trump administration that “keeps her up at night.” Speaking on the On Purpose with Jay Shetty podcast earlier this year, Obama said: “It’s what’s happening to immigrants. It’s not the fear for myself anymore… I do still worry about my daughters in the world, even though they are somewhat recognizable.”
The former first lady, who shares daughters Malia, 27, and Sasha, 24, with Barack, highlighted the challenges facing people of color in the U.S.: “There’s so much bias and so much racism and so much ignorance that fuels those kinds of choices. I worry for people of color all over this country, and I don’t know that we will have the advocates to protect everybody. And that … frightens me, it keeps me up at night.”
While Michelle Obama may never pursue the presidency herself, her voice and influence are expected to continue shaping public discourse in the years ahead.
