"There's No Overstating Her Feelings": A Source Explained Michelle Obama's Decision Not To Attend Donald Trump's Inauguration

A source elaborated on Michelle Obama's reasoning for not attending Donald Trump's inauguration.

The news comes after Michelle was absent from Jimmy Carter's funeral, where her husband Barack was notably photographed sitting next to Trump. Her advisors subsequently told CNN that she is "still in Hawaii on an extended holiday vacation."

Michelle's office then confirmed yesterday that she won't be attending the inauguration on Jan. 20. It's not the only time a former first lady has chosen not to attend in recent years — neither Donald nor Melania Trump attended Joe Biden's inauguration in 2020.

Now, "a source familiar with her thinking" told People, "There's no overstating her feelings about [Trump]. She's not one to plaster on a pleasant face and pretend for protocol's sake."

The source then mentioned that Michelle's feelings were further heightened by the felon's personal attacks on her family and his many bigoted comments against people of color. "She served in the public eye and did all the public good that she could for eight years as first lady," the source continued. "You'll see her when she has a project or cause to promote but she doesn't feel the need to be a public figure anymore."

Furthermore, Michelle's mother Marian died in 2024, meaning that this was the family's first holiday season without her. "It's been an emotional time for [Michelle]," the source added. "The holidays were always a time for family in Hawaii."

Well, the inauguration guest list apparently might include Jake and Logan Paul — in case her decision wasn't set in stone enough.