Barack Obama is opening up about the women who mean the world to him. In a recent interview with InStyle, the former President shared heartfelt words about his wife Michelle, daughters Malia and Sasha, and his late mother, Anne Dunham.
He spoke lovingly of Malia, now 22, calling her "just buoyant" – someone who clearly enjoys being around people, soaking up life, and engaging in meaningful conversations. Sasha, at 19, is celebrated for her confidence and independence. Obama described her as "completely confident about her own take on the world" and someone who isn't intimidated by titles or credentials. He recalled how even as a child, she would make up her mind and stand her ground on decisions.
Michelle, of course, is also getting her share of praise. While many know her as a brilliant public speaker, Obama revealed a side of her few are aware of: her formidable presence in the gym, especially when it comes to boxing. "You don't want to get in the way when she's working on a bag," he laughed. "There's force there, including some kicks."
The former President isn't the only one singing Michelle's praises. During an interview with CBS, he joked about not joining President-elect Joe Biden's administration, partly because he'd rather spend time with his wife. "There are probably some things I would not be doing because Michelle would leave me," he quipped.
Looking back on his own political journey, Obama was candid about the toll it took on his family, particularly his relationship with Michelle. He remembered wondering if his ambitions were driven by ego or genuine conviction, especially when she initially wasn't supportive of his run for President. "I ask myself," he reflected, "how much of this is just megalomania, how much of this is vanity?" Even after winning, he admitted the presidency didn't erase her frustrations – the strain on families isn't something that disappears simply because of political success.
In his memoir, Obama also paid tribute to his mother, Anne Dunham. He described her as someone who defied convention, marrying outside her race twice, and lavished his siblings and him with "what seemed like an inexhaustible love." He wrote about her fierce determination: "Appalled by racism, incensed by societal constraints put upon women," she divorced unsuitable partners, built a career on her own terms, and raised her children according to her own standards. She lived life on her own terms, doing whatever she damn well pleased.
It's clear that Barack Obama holds these women in high regard. From Michelle's strength in the ring to Malia and Sasha's confidence, and looking back at his mother's resilience, it's evident he learned a lot about strength, independence, and living life fully from them. He's not holding back on the praise, and it's easy to see why.