In a recent podcast, Michelle Obama clarified the misconceptions surrounding her marriage to Barack Obama, which have arisen amidst her selective participation in public events. She expressed that her independence and decisions do not signify marital issues but rather reflect her personal autonomy and preferences.
**Michelle Obama Addresses Divorce Speculations, Asserts Independence**

**Michelle Obama Addresses Divorce Speculations, Asserts Independence**
Former First Lady Michelle Obama dispels rumors about her marriage to Barack Obama during a podcast interview, emphasizing her autonomy in decision-making.
Michelle Obama has taken a proactive step in addressing ongoing rumors about her marriage to former President Barack Obama, choosing to speak candidly during an episode of the “Work in Progress” podcast. As speculations intensified, especially regarding her absence at notable events such as Donald Trump’s inauguration and the memorial service for former President Jimmy Carter, many assumed the couple's relationship might be strained.
In her remarks, Ms. Obama pointed out society's tendency to jump to conclusions regarding women’s choices, insisting that her recent decisions stem from a desire for personal growth, not marital discord. She remarked, “People couldn’t even fathom that I was making a choice for myself that they had to assume my husband and I are divorcing." This statement reflects her frustration with the stereotype that women often must justify their choices in light of familial pressures.
Despite stepping back from some public commitments, she reiterated her commitment to advocacy, particularly concerning girls’ education and empowerment. "I still care about girls' education," she affirmed, underscoring her ongoing passion for advocacy and public service.
The Obamas' relationship remains strong, as evidenced by their recent 32nd wedding anniversary celebration in October. Reflecting on her experiences, Ms. Obama previously shared insights into the challenges they faced during Barack’s political ascent in her acclaimed memoir “Becoming,” further showcasing the complexity of their partnership amidst external expectations.
In her remarks, Ms. Obama pointed out society's tendency to jump to conclusions regarding women’s choices, insisting that her recent decisions stem from a desire for personal growth, not marital discord. She remarked, “People couldn’t even fathom that I was making a choice for myself that they had to assume my husband and I are divorcing." This statement reflects her frustration with the stereotype that women often must justify their choices in light of familial pressures.
Despite stepping back from some public commitments, she reiterated her commitment to advocacy, particularly concerning girls’ education and empowerment. "I still care about girls' education," she affirmed, underscoring her ongoing passion for advocacy and public service.
The Obamas' relationship remains strong, as evidenced by their recent 32nd wedding anniversary celebration in October. Reflecting on her experiences, Ms. Obama previously shared insights into the challenges they faced during Barack’s political ascent in her acclaimed memoir “Becoming,” further showcasing the complexity of their partnership amidst external expectations.