Michelle Obama Skips Inauguration of Trump

Former first lady Michelle Obama will not attend the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump, marking her second absence from a gathering of former U.S. leaders in two weeks. The Office of Barack and Michelle Obama confirmed that former President Barack Obama will be present at the January 20 inauguration, alongside other former presidents and their spouses. No reason has been provided for Michelle Obama's absence, which follows her missing the state funeral for former President Jimmy Carter. While Barack Obama and Trump appeared amicable at the funeral, Michelle Obama has publicly criticized Trump over the years. Other former leaders, including Bill and Hillary Clinton, and George and Laura Bush, are expected to attend the inauguration. This continues a trend of Michelle Obama opting out of events involving Trump, having also skipped his first inauguration in 2017.