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 her husband Barack Obama's presidency. Throughout her time as First Lady, she championed initiatives focused on health, education, and fighting childhood obesity with her 'Let's Move!' campaign. She is admired for her commitment to public service and her role as a cultural icon.

Sections (6)

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

2005: Comments made by Donald Trump in 2005.

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

October 6, 2008: Interviews and Controversies During Campaign

On October 6, 2008, Michelle Obama was interviewed by Larry King and Jon Stewart on The Daily Show, where she discussed the Bradley effect and deflected criticism of her husband. On the same night, a Fox News host referred to the Obamas' fist bump as a "terrorist fist jab," leading to the host being taken off air and the show being canceled.

2008: Trump attempts to revive past comments Obama made.

A week after Michelle Obama criticized Donald Trump for his 2005 statements, Trump attempted to revive past comments Michelle Obama made regarding Hillary Clinton during the 2008 presidential election.

April 1, 2009: Obama meets Queen Elizabeth II

On April 1, 2009, Michelle Obama met with Queen Elizabeth II in Buckingham Palace. Michelle Obama embraced the Queen before attending an event with world leaders. The hug generated controversy for being out of protocol when greeting Elizabeth on April 1, 2009.

November 2013: Criticism for Not Advocating for Women's Issues

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. This criticism was met with sharp rebuttals across the political spectrum.

October 2014: Rand Paul linked to her 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: Obama travels to Saudi Arabia

In January 2015, Michelle Obama traveled to Saudi Arabia with her husband following the death of King Abdullah. She received criticism for not covering her head, though she was also defended as a foreigner not required to adhere to Saudi customs. During the encounter in January 2015, King Salman neither greeted nor acknowledged her.

January 2016: Criticism from Chris Christie

In January 2016, Chris Christie, Republican governor of New Jersey and presidential candidate, criticized the first lady'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: Obama criticizes Donald Trump

May 2017: Rebuke of Trump Administration

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