Michelle Obama is “so glad” she never had a son as she feared he would have turned out like her husband. This candid revelation provides insight into the complex dynamics of one of America’s most prominent political families.
Speaking on a podcast she co-hosts with her brother Craig Robinson, the 61-year-old former First Lady appeared to take a swipe at her former US president partner Barack Obama while discussing her views on being a parent. The Obama family has been subjects of intense media scrutiny since Barack’s initial presidential campaign.
“I’m so glad I didn’t have a boy because he would have been a Barack Obama,” she said. Michelle, who has two daughters – Sasha, 23, and Malia, 25 – with Barack, made the remark during a conversation with radio host Angie Martinez. Child psychology research indicates that personality traits can be significantly inherited from parents, making Michelle’s concerns understandable.
“Baby Barack. It would have been amazing,” Angie replied to Michelle’s comment. “No, I would’ve felt for him,” Michelle responded. This exchange highlights the former First Lady’s protective instincts and understanding of the challenges that come with being in the political spotlight.
The comments come amid speculation the Obamas’ relationship may be on the rocks, although Michelle has publicly denied rumors of a split. High-profile couples often face increased public pressure and scrutiny that can strain relationships.
She and Barack have not been seen together at several recent high-profile events, and it emerged earlier this week the ex-First Lady had travelled to Mallorca with her daughters, but without her husband. The Mediterranean island has become a popular destination for celebrities seeking privacy away from media attention.
Photos published by the Daily Mail showed Michelle enjoying a drink at The Lobster Club in Puerto Portals, accompanied by 60-year-old James Costos, the former US ambassador to Spain, and his partner Michael Smith, 69, an interior designer who previously worked with the Obamas. The exclusive venue is known for hosting prominent political figures seeking discreet dining experiences.
“Parenting is like fly-fishing,” Mrs. Obama said. “Never been fly-fishing but from what I have seen about it, it’s all in the wrist – it’s a very delicate balance… it’s like nothing works the same way every time.” Michelle also appeared to make a veiled comment about Barack’s post-presidency leisure activities.
“We should go fly-fishing. Better than golfing,” she continued. Barack Obama is known for his passion for golf, having played numerous rounds during his presidency, which drew criticism from political opponents who viewed it as excessive leisure time.
“[Barack is] a tremendous father,” in a separate interview earlier this month with Bruce Springsteen, 74, Michelle described. Research shows that children of involved fathers demonstrate better academic performance and emotional stability.
She has addressed the ongoing speculation about their marriage, describing the public’s assumptions as rooted in sexism. Gender bias in media coverage disproportionately affects prominent female political figures according to journalism studies.
“If I were having problems with my husband, everybody would know about it,” she said in a May podcast appearance. This statement reflects the reality that presidential families live under constant media surveillance, with their personal lives often becoming public discussion topics.
“We as women, I think we struggle with, like, disappointing people,” in April, Michelle told podcast host Sophia Bush. “So much so that this year people couldn’t even fathom that I was making a choice for myself, that they had to assume that my husband and I are divorcing… that’s what society does to us.” Women in leadership positions face significantly more personal scrutiny than their male counterparts.
The Obama marriage has spanned more than three decades, beginning when they met at a Chicago law firm. Their relationship has weathered the intense pressures of political life, including Barack’s rise from state senator to President of the United States. Political marriages face unique challenges that require additional communication strategies to maintain healthy relationships.
Michelle‘s recent comments offer a rare glimpse into the private thoughts of someone who has lived at the intersection of family life and global politics.
