Former First Lady Michelle Obama recently opened up about her experiences during her time in the White House, sharing her feelings on race and the scrutiny she faced as the first Black First Lady. In an upcoming special on "Good Morning America," co-host Robin Roberts read excerpts from Obama’s new book, "The Look," where she discusses the pressure she felt in the public eye.
Obama reflected on the unique challenges she and her husband faced as the first Black couple in the White House. She noted, “We were all too aware that as the first black couple, we couldn’t afford any missteps.” She described her experience as being under a “particularly white hot glare” as a Black woman, indicating that the expectations placed on her were different from those on other families in similar positions.
When asked by Roberts if she felt that pressure, Obama replied affirmatively, stating, “For sure.” She explained that they did not receive the same grace that other families might have enjoyed, emphasizing the weight of public scrutiny they faced.
Commenting on her remarks, radio host Buck Sexton criticized Obama, suggesting that she seems to be “a bitter malcontent addicted to complaining about her incredibly privileged life.” This remark highlights the divide in public opinion regarding Obama’s reflections on her time in the White House.
In previous interviews, Obama has described her time in the White House as isolating. She has mentioned the financial burdens the family faced, despite their wealth, which is reportedly around $70 million. She pointed out that they had to pay for their own food and travel, even when using government resources like the First Lady’s plane.
Obama has also been vocal about issues related to race and beauty standards. Recently, she discussed the challenges Black women face regarding hair care, stating that many spend “thousands of hours” and considerable money to straighten their hair instead of embracing their natural curls.
This isn’t the first time Obama has shared her thoughts on national pride. Back in 2008, she famously said it was the first time she felt proud of her country as an adult when her husband, Barack Obama, ran for president. She expressed hope for change and a desire for unity among Americans.
As Michelle Obama continues to share her story, her insights spark conversations about race, privilege, and the experiences of those in the public eye.
