Washington D.C., April 7, 2025 (Yes Punjab News)
Former U.S. President Barack Obama has spoken candidly about how his eight years in the White House took a toll on his marriage with former First Lady Michelle Obama, saying he’s been working to “dig himself out of a deep deficit” in their relationship.
In a recent conversation with Hamilton College President Steven Tepper, Obama acknowledged the strain his political career placed on his family life.
“I was in a deep deficit with my wife,” Obama said. “So I have been trying to dig myself out of that hole by doing occasionally fun things.”
Marriage Under Pressure
Barack and Michelle Obama, married since 1992, have long acknowledged the difficulties they faced balancing public service and personal life. The former president reiterated the emotional cost of the presidency during the college discussion held on Thursday.
Michelle has also spoken openly about their marital struggles. In a 2022 interview with Revolt TV, she remarked there were “10 years” when she “couldn’t stand” her husband, particularly during the years their daughters—Malia and Sasha—were young and Obama’s political ascent demanded his time and energy.
“People think I’m being catty by saying this,” Michelle said. “But guess when it happened? When those kids were little.”
Post-Presidency Healing
Since leaving the White House in 2017, the couple has been gradually reconnecting. In a 2023 interview on CBS Mornings, Barack responded to Michelle’s earlier remarks, saying:
“It sure helps to be out of the White House and to have a little more time with her.”
He admitted he underestimated the stress Michelle faced as both a mother and First Lady, raising their daughters under intense public scrutiny.
Therapy and Communication
Michelle previously revealed in her memoir and other interviews that the couple sought professional help to navigate difficult phases of their marriage. She emphasized that, while there were times she wished things were different, she never considered giving up.
“There were definitely times when I wished things were different… but I don’t think I ever thought, ‘I’m just checking out of this,’” she told PEOPLE in 2018.
Michelle’s New Podcast Sparks Honest Conversations
Michelle Obama recently launched a new podcast titled IMO (In My Opinion), co-hosted with her brother Craig Robinson. The show, launched in March, aims to foster vulnerability and open dialogue.
“If you’re feeling a certain kind of way, the reality is others probably are too,” she said. “When you open up, it’s easier to find answers.”—
Public Scrutiny and Social Media Silence
The couple has also faced unfounded rumors, including tabloid speculation of Barack’s alleged affair with actress Jennifer Aniston. Speculation intensified when Barack attended public events, including Donald Trump’s inauguration and Jimmy Carter’s funeral, without Michelle.
They later pushed back against the rumors with public Valentine’s Day posts, sharing affectionate messages and photos together.
Michelle, during a recent SXSW appearance, emphasized the importance of ignoring social media noise.
“You cannot live through social media,” she said. “I don’t think I have ever once looked at a comment section.”
Criticism of Trump’s Behavior
While at Hamilton College, Obama also addressed the political climate, criticizing former President Donald Trump’s attacks on the press and law firms.
“It’s unimaginable that the same parties that are silent now would have tolerated behavior like that from me, or a whole bunch of my predecessors,” he stated.
A Story of Resilience
From meeting at a Chicago law firm in the late 1980s to raising a family in the White House and navigating post-presidency life, the Obamas continue to demonstrate resilience and authenticity. Their transparency around marital challenges offers a rare glimpse into the personal cost of public service.
FAQs: Barack and Michelle Obama’s Relationship
1. What did Barack Obama say about his marriage recently?
He admitted he was “in a deep deficit” with Michelle after his presidency and is making efforts to reconnect by spending more quality time with her.
2. How long have the Obamas been married?
Since 1992, making their marriage over 30 years strong.
3. What challenges did Michelle Obama highlight in their relationship?
She revealed that for about a decade—particularly when their children were young—she struggled deeply with their relationship due to Barack’s demanding schedule.
4. What is Michelle Obama’s new podcast about?
IMO (In My Opinion) is a platform for honest, emotional conversations about life, family, and mental health, co-hosted with her brother Craig Robinson.
5. How do the Obamas handle rumors and media gossip?
Michelle said she avoids reading comment sections and doesn’t let social media dictate her emotions or decisions.
6. Did Obama criticize Donald Trump during his recent talk?
Yes. He expressed concern over the silence from certain political circles in the face of Trump’s actions, comparing it to the scrutiny past presidents faced.
