Michelle Obama's decision to skip Donald Trump's inauguration is a break from the norm, as she has attended every presidential inauguration since her husband's in 2009. Her office confirmed her absence but did not provide a specific reason. This absence follows her non-attendance at Jimmy Carter's funeral, another event where she would have been in the same space as Trump. Michelle has been candid about her disdain for Trump, particularly regarding his past comments and actions. "There was no reflection of the broader sense of America," she said, recalling her feelings during Trump's first inauguration in 2017 [1].

While no official reason has been given for Michelle Obama's decision, her past comments provide some insight. Michelle has previously expressed her disapproval of Trump's rhetoric and policies. In her podcast, she recounted feeling out of place during Trump's first inauguration due to the lack of diversity and representation. "There was no diversity, there was no color on that stage," she said [2]. Her absence at the inauguration and at Jimmy Carter's funeral, where protocol would have seated her next to Trump, suggests a deliberate choice to avoid interactions with him.

Despite her decision not to attend the inauguration, Michelle Obama has remained active in the public sphere. She recently campaigned alongside Vice President Kamala Harris and participated in a get-out-the-vote rally. Additionally, she appeared on Jennifer Hudson's show and has been involved in various public engagements. Her absence from the inauguration does not signify a retreat from public life but rather a selective participation in events. Her continued involvement in political and social causes highlights her ongoing influence and commitment to advocacy [3].