The rumors of an Obama divorce are beginning to show merit
In this DML Report…
Earlier this month, reports emerged detailing a strained relationship between Barack and Michelle Obama, with sources claiming the couple has been living increasingly separate lives since leaving the White House in 2017. Barack has been spotted alone at high-profile events, including Donald Trump’s January 20, 2025, inauguration and Jimmy Carter’s January 9, 2025, funeral, fueling speculation about their marriage. Insiders note Michelle’s absence from these occasions, alongside her lack of public appearances since late 2024, while Barack maintains an active public schedule, including a recent solo trip to an NBA game. The couple, married since 1992, share daughters Malia, 26, and Sasha, 23, but rumors suggest Michelle is preparing to leave their $8.1 million D.C. home.
Michelle Obama’s new podcast, “IMO,” launched with her brother Craig Robinson, has added to the chatter, though it avoids direct mention of divorce between her and Barack. In episodes released in March 2025, Michelle discusses her frustration with Barack’s punctuality during their White House years and his casual approach to friendships, while Barack, speaking at Hamilton College on April 3, admitted to a “deep deficit” in their relationship post-presidency. Sources close to the couple say Michelle has been focused on her own projects, including the podcast and her role at the Obama Foundation, while Barack works on his memoirs. Publicly, they’ve countered rumors with affectionate social media posts, like Michelle’s October 2024 anniversary message calling Barack “my rock.”
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Political observers point to a decline in the Obamas’ influence as a factor in their personal rift, with Barack’s delayed endorsement of Kamala Harris after Biden’s July 2024 exit drawing criticism. Once a dominant force in Democratic circles, Barack’s relevance has waned, evidenced by George Clooney’s irritation at being labeled his “puppet” in a new book by Chris Whipple. Michelle, meanwhile, has distanced herself from politics, skipping key events and focusing on personal ventures, including a potential $20-30 million memoir deal. Despite wild rumors of Barack’s alleged affair with Jennifer Aniston—denied by Aniston on Jimmy Kimmel Live!—no concrete evidence of infidelity or an imminent split has surfaced, leaving the state of their 32-year marriage a matter of speculation.