Michelle Obama is crying again.
Former First Lady Michelle Obama is back in the spotlight after using her podcast to relive a moment from 2009 that she says left her “infuriated” — all because of a pair of Bermuda shorts she wore while stepping off Air Force One. Her comments have sparked fresh debate, especially among Americans who feel the Obamas frequently criticize the country that gave them extraordinary opportunity.
During a new episode of her podcast, “IMO With Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson,” the former first lady expressed frustration that her clothing choices became a topic of national discussion. She argued that President Barack Obama never had to worry about such scrutiny, while she did.
“The fact that we had to spend time thinking about that stuff — and my husband didn’t — it was infuriating,” she said.
Flashback: The 2009 Shorts Controversy
Michelle Obama recounted that in August 2009, she and President Obama were preparing to visit the Grand Canyon during their first vacation since his inauguration. With temperatures nearing 100 degrees, she struggled to decide what to wear, fearing any outfit might make her appear “un-American” or “out of touch.”
Michelle later vowed in 2013 never to wear shorts on Air Force One again after what she described as a “huge stink.”
Comparisons to Melania Trump Highlight Media Double Standard
Many conservatives view Michelle Obama’s renewed frustration as another example of the Obamas portraying themselves as victims. They contrast her treatment with how the media relentlessly targeted First Lady Melania Trump, regardless of what she wore.
Melania faced criticism in 2017 when she wore jeans and a baseball cap during Hurricane Harvey relief efforts — normal attire for millions of Americans. She again became the center of media outrage in 2018 after wearing a jacket with the message “I really don’t care. Do u?” Melania later explained the jacket was directed at her critics in the liberal press.
Instead of blaming America, Melania addressed the controversy directly — something conservatives say Michelle rarely does.
Critics Question Why Michelle Obama Keeps Reopening Old Wounds
Michelle Obama’s remarks have triggered backlash across social media, where many Americans say the former first lady continues to focus on grievances rather than gratitude.
While millions of people admire the historic privilege of flying on Air Force One, Michelle Obama revisited a decade-old complaint about shorts — a story some see as trivial compared to the challenges facing everyday Americans.
Fox News Digital requested further comment from Michelle Obama’s office but has not yet received a response.
