Michelle Obama's reservations about campaigning for Biden are tied to her dissatisfaction over how Hunter Biden’s ex-wife, Kathleen Buhle, was treated post-divorce.
The New York Post reported that Obama, known for her active role in political campaigns, has been notably absent from the 2024 campaign trail. This year, however, her reluctance seems to stem from a particularly personal issue tied to the treatment of her close friend, Kathleen Buhle, by the Biden family following Buhle's divorce from Hunter Biden.
Kathleen Buhle and Michelle Obama developed a close friendship during the Obama administration.
According to Hunter Biden's memoir, Michelle and Buhle often socialized together, creating a strong bond that has lasted well beyond their White House years. This enduring friendship has influenced Michelle’s current stance regarding her participation in the political realm.
Issues began to surface following Kathleen Buhle’s separation from Hunter Biden in 2017. The divorce proceedings revealed accusations against Hunter, including infidelity and financial irresponsibility, throughout their 22-year marriage. These revelations and the subsequent apparent ostracism of Buhle by the Biden family have deeply affected Michelle Obama, making her hesitant to publicly support the President’s reelection efforts.
Despite her public support for President Biden’s leadership, Michelle Obama has expressed her frustrations privately.
Her resistance to joining the campaign trail highlights a delicate balance she tries to maintain between supporting her political allies and standing by her convictions and friendships.
A representative for Michelle Obama emphasized that she can maintain her friendships impartially, stating, "She is friends with Kathleen and with the Bidens. Two things can be true." This suggests that while Michelle supports President Biden's reelection, she is also not willing to overlook the experiences of her friend Kathleen.
On social media, Michelle Obama continues to show her support for Biden, recently reposting his campaign announcement.
However, this online support has not translated into active campaigning or public appearances typically expected from prominent Democratic figures during an election cycle.
White House spokespeople have been quick to refute any notion of a rift within the Biden-Obama relationship. They maintain that any reports suggesting strained ties are misinformed.
"The Biden and Obama families are like family to one another," stated a White House spokesman, adding, "The former President and First Lady have been two of the strongest supporters of President Biden’s leadership and agenda."
Nevertheless, Michelle Obama's subdued involvement could have implications for the President's reelection efforts.
Her charismatic presence and appeal were pivotal during previous campaigns, and her noticeable absence could pose challenges for garnering the enthusiastic support needed to galvanize voters.
Despite these challenges, there remains a strong institutional bond between the Biden and Obama families, as reiterated by representatives from both sides. The shared history and mutual support in public narratives continue, albeit with underlying tensions that hint at the complexities and personal dynamics at play.
In conclusion, Michelle Obama's current stance in the political landscape is shaped by a blend of allegiance to her friends and her political allies.
Her decision to not actively campaign for President Biden highlights a principality stance, reflecting her conflict over the treatment of close friend Kathleen Buhill post-divorce. Michelle Obama's situation underscores the sometimes complex interplay of personal relationships and professional obligations within the high stakes of political alliances.