Michelle Obama, the former first lady, stirred a digital tempest on Friday when she posted a New Year's message on Instagram, which was met with a barrage of criticism.
As the year 2024 drew to a close, Obama's video, which began with a somber tone, highlighted the work of the Obama Presidential Center, and extended holiday wishes to her followers.
"Happy holidays, everyone. I know it's been a difficult few months for so many of us, and that folks are feeling a little bit anxious and uncertain," Obama stated in the video, as reported by Fox News. She continued, "But even during these tough times, there are plenty of reasons to stay hopeful," before proceeding to discuss the initiatives undertaken by the Obama Foundation.
The video, which attracted hundreds of comments within hours of being posted, was met with a mixed response. While a section of the audience expressed gratitude for her message and support for the Obama Foundation, several supporters of President-elect Trump interpreted her comments as a veiled reference to Trump's victory. They voiced their objections, suggesting that Obama's remarks about "a difficult few months" were a reflection of her disappointment with the election results.
One user retorted, "Michelle, America is excited about whats to come: a new horizon and prosperity for the nation. 2025-2029! No anxiety here." Another commenter, criticizing the Biden administration, wrote, "A difficult few years from the damage the Biden administration has caused! Things have never looked better since Trump won the election! The people have the power! Not even all those celebrities could change that!" A third user chimed in, "We are certain it won't be worse than your husband's administration or the Biden administration. That we are CERTAIN."
Despite the criticism, Obama's supporters expressed their appreciation for her message. "Thank you for your message of hope," one user replied. "It is so much needed."
During the 2024 campaign, the Obamas were prominent supporters of Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris. Michelle Obama, in particular, made several appearances at Harris's rallies and delivered a speech in Pennsylvania three days before the election. She referred to Trump as a "skilled con man" who exploited "other people's genuine pain and anger and fear."
"We don't always get it right, but here in America, we rise more than we fall," Obama declared in Norristown, Penn., on Nov. 2. She emphasized the need for leaders who can "connect with people's pain and address the systemic issues at their root, not leaders who stoke our fears and focus our fury on one another."
Following the election, the Obamas issued a joint statement congratulating Trump on his victory, despite it not being the outcome they had hoped for. "In a country as big and diverse as ours, we won't always see eye-to-eye on everything," the Obamas acknowledged. "But progress requires us to extend good faith and grace even to people with whom we deeply disagree."
Login