Major Controversies Surrounding Michelle Obama: A Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Michelle Obama.

Michelle Obama is an American attorney and author, best known for serving as the First Lady of the United States from 2009 to 2017 during Barack Obama's presidency. As First Lady, she championed initiatives related to poverty awareness, education, nutrition, and healthy living. She is regarded as a fashion icon and a role model for women. After leaving the White House, she has remained a prominent public figure, continuing her advocacy work and publishing her bestselling memoir, 'Becoming'.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

2005: Trump's controversial audio recording

In October 2016, Michelle Obama criticized Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump for the statements he made in a 2005 audio recording at a Clinton rally in Manchester, New Hampshire.

May 14, 2007: Barack Obama Criticizes Wal-Mart

On May 14, 2007, Barack Obama criticized Wal-Mart labor policies at an AFL–CIO forum in Trenton, New Jersey.

May 31, 2008: Withdrawal from Trinity United Church of Christ

On May 31, 2008, Barack and Michelle Obama announced their withdrawal from the Trinity United Church of Christ due to divisive statements by Reverend Wright.

2008: Trump's attempt to revive past comments Obama made in regard to Clinton during the 2008 presidential election

A week after Michelle Obama criticized Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump for the statements he made in a 2005 audio recording, speaking at a Clinton rally in Manchester, New Hampshire on October 13, 2016, Donald Trump attempted to revive past comments Obama made in regard to Clinton during the 2008 presidential election.

2008: Focus on Fashion Sense Criticism

In 2008, Michelle Obama faced media criticism for the perceived overemphasis on her fashion sense rather than her serious contributions. It was argued that her publicists were contributing to this focus on style over substance.

April 1, 2009: Meeting with Queen Elizabeth II

On April 1, 2009, Michelle Obama met with Queen Elizabeth II in Buckingham Palace. She embraced the Queen before attending an event with world leaders, generating controversy for the perceived breach of protocol.

April 2009: First Trip Abroad as First Lady

In April 2009, during her first trip abroad as First Lady, Michelle Obama toured a cancer ward with Sarah Brown, wife of British Prime Minister Gordon Brown. There were discussions in the media regarding protocol when Michelle reciprocated a touch on her back by the Queen during a reception. Palace sources denied any breach in etiquette had occurred.

November 2013: Politico article criticizing Obama

In November 2013, a Politico article by Michelle Cottle accused Michelle Obama of being a "feminist nightmare" for not using her position and education to advocate for women's issues. The article was sharply criticized across the political spectrum.

October 2014: Senator Rand Paul linked to Michelle Obama's Twitter account

In October 2014, senator Rand Paul linked to Michelle Obama's Twitter account when announcing on the website that he was going to Dunkin' Donuts.

January 2015: Visit to Saudi Arabia

In January 2015, Michelle Obama traveled to Saudi Arabia following the death of King Abdullah. She faced criticism for not covering her head, although she also received defense for being a foreigner. She was neither greeted nor acknowledged by King Salman during the encounter.

January 2016: Chris Christie criticized Let's Move

In January 2016, Chris Christie criticized Michelle Obama's involvement with healthy eating while he was campaigning in Iowa, arguing that she was using the government to exercise her views on eating.

October 13, 2016: Criticism of Donald Trump

On October 13, 2016, Michelle Obama strongly criticized Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump for his comments made in a 2005 audio recording, speaking at a Clinton rally in Manchester, New Hampshire.

May 2017: Rebuke of Trump Administration

In May 2017, during an appearance at the Partnership for a Healthier America conference, Michelle Obama criticized the Trump administration for delaying a federal requirement aimed at improving nutritional standards for school lunches.