Former First Lady Michelle Obama once again ruled out a future presidential run, saying the country is “not ready” for a woman in the White House — a blunt assessment she shared during a public event in Brooklyn, New York. Obama appeared with actress Tracee Ellis Ross while promoting her new book The Look, where she addressed persistent rumors that she might emerge as a 2028 presidential contender.
Despite being one of the most recognizable political figures in the country, Obama has long rejected the idea of seeking the presidency. She first dismissed the notion in 2016, during her husband Barack Obama’s second term, saying: “I will not run for president. No, nope, not going to do it.”
On stage this week, she reiterated that decision — and offered a clearer explanation.
“America Ain’t Ready” for a Woman President, Obama Says
Obama pointed to the 2024 election, where former Vice President Kamala Harris lost to Donald Trump, as evidence that the country still struggles with the idea of female leadership at the very top.
“As we saw in this past election, sadly, we ain’t ready,” she said. “That’s why I’m like, don’t even look at me about running, ’cause you all are lying. You’re not ready for a woman.”
She added that, in her view, many Americans — particularly men — still resist being led by a woman.
“We got a lot of growing up to do,” she said. “There’s still a lot of men who do not feel like they can be led by a woman, and we saw it.”
Obama Says Immigration Policies Under Trump Keep Her ‘Up at Night’
During the discussion, Obama also spoke about broader issues she feels deeply concerned about, including immigration. She previously told the On Purpose with Jay Shetty podcast that some of the Trump administration’s policies “keep her up at night.”
“In this current climate, for me it’s what’s happening to immigrants,” she said. “It’s not the fear for myself anymore… I’m Michelle Obama. But I do still worry about my daughters in the world.”
Obama said she worries about people of color across the country who may face mistreatment or unfair judgment.
“There’s so much bias and so much racism and so much ignorance that fuels those kinds of choices,” she said. “I don’t know that we will have the advocates to protect everybody … and that frightens me.”
Reflecting on Family and the Future
The former first lady, who shares daughters Malia, 27, and Sasha, 24, with former President Barack Obama, said she is grateful for the protection and stability her family has — but worries about those who don’t have the same safety net.
“How do you feel comfortable going to work, going to school, when you know that there could be people out here judging you and who could upend your life in a second?” she asked. “That’s who I worry for right now.”
No Presidential Run Coming — But Her Voice Isn’t Going Anywhere
Although Obama continues shutting down speculation about a 2028 run, she remains a major cultural and political figure. Whether through books, public events, or interviews, she is expected to continue weighing in on national conversations for years to come.
Emily Johnson is a critically acclaimed essayist and novelist known for her thought-provoking works centered on feminism, women’s rights, and modern relationships. Born and raised in Portland, Oregon, Emily grew up with a deep love of books, often spending her afternoons at her local library. She went on to study literature and gender studies at UCLA, where she became deeply involved in activism and began publishing essays in campus journals. Her debut essay collection, Voices Unbound, struck a chord with readers nationwide for its fearless exploration of gender dynamics, identity, and the challenges faced by women in contemporary society. Emily later transitioned into fiction, writing novels that balance compelling storytelling with social commentary. Her protagonists are often strong, multidimensional women navigating love, ambition, and the struggles of everyday life, making her a favorite among readers who crave authentic, relatable narratives. Critics praise her ability to merge personal intimacy with universal themes. Off the page, Emily is an advocate for women in publishing, leading workshops that encourage young female writers to embrace their voices. She lives in Seattle with her partner and two rescue cats, where she continues to write, teach, and inspire a new generation of storytellers.
