Work stress

Barack Obama reveals what frustrates Michelle Obama — and why Trump is at the center of it


Obama has remained a prominent figure in the Democratic Party even though he left the White House almost a decade ago


Barack Obama reveals what frustrates Michelle Obama — and why Trump is at the center of it© GC Images
Maria LoretoSenior Writer
MAY 6, 2026 12:04 PM EDT

Barack Obama is opening up about the impact of being President and a leader for the Democratic Party. Even though Obama left the White House almost a decade ago, he remains a key figure in the nation, having a say in Democratic nominees and a sway over Americans. In a new interview, he's opening up about the toll this leadership role has taken on his marriage to Michelle Obama, especially when faced with a figure like Donald Trump.

August 28, 2023, Flushing Meadows, New York, USA: President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama attend Day 1 of the 2023 US Open held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on Monday August 28, 2023 in the Flushing neighborhood of the Queens borough of N ew York City. JAVIER ROJAS/PI (Credit Image: © PI via ZUMA Press Wire)© The Grosby Group
Barack Obama concluded his presidency almost a decade ago

Obama was the subject of a New Yorker profile, discussing many of his experiences with the outlet. He revealed that the impact of Trump's presidency has created pressure that seeps into his marriage and that requests him to be involved in politics, whether that means being involved in different campaigns, appearing in ads, or having him comment on different developments that affect the country. 

“It does create a genuine tension in our household, and it frustrates her,” he said of Michelle. “She wants to see her husband easing up and spending more time with her, enjoying what remains of our lives." 

Trump made clear he does not claim personal knowledge of extraterrestrial life. “Well, I don’t know if they’re real or not,” he said when asked directly.© Kevin Dietsch
Obama revealed that Donald Trump's presidency and the need to be present for the Democratic Party have taken a toll on his marriage

In the past, Obama has discussed the challenges of remaining a political figure and not just a commentator, requiring him to take some distance from the daily news cycle. 

“For me to function like Jon Stewart, even once a week, just going off, just ripping what was happening—which, by the way, I’m glad Jon’s doing it—then I’m not a political leader, I’m a commentator,” he said.

 More details about Michelle and Barack's relationship

Michelle and Barack Obama enjoy private yacht getaway in Italy amid divorce rumors© Anadolu
Obama remains a key figure for the Democratic Party

Michelle and Barack Obama are one of politics' most notorious couples, with the world consistently speculating on their relationship and dynamic. 

In a recent appearance on her podcast IMO, which she hosts alongside her brother Craig, Michelle was talking about the world of dating with WNBA star Angel Reese. She noted how important it was to be with someone who matched your level of ambition. "I feel very blessed that my husband, before all of this, he had to be completely secure with all that was me—how I thought, how I moved—and it's a rare thing," she said. 

She also shared the advice that she gives to her daughters, Sasha and Malia. "You want a partner that can bring it all, and I tell my daughters, 'You have to be able to do everything. I don't want you to ever count on somebody," she said. "I've seen too many friends who served the role, they did what they were supposed to do, and then somebody walked out on them or somebody died, unfortunately."

Michelle Obama wears burgundy figure-hugging bodycon with statement jewelry, continues stylish streak© Arturo Holmes
Michelle Obama often talks about their marriage and its strenghts and challenges

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