Former first lady Michelle Obama took a not-so-subtle jab at former President Donald Trump during a portrait ceremony in the White House Wednesday.
Obama underscored the importance of a peaceful transition of power to American democracy, throwing shade at Trump for his efforts to challenge the 2020 election after his loss and the violence that followed on Jan. 6.
BIDEN TO UNVEIL BARACK AND MICHELLE OBAMA’S OFFICIAL WHITE HOUSE PORTRAITS
“I do recognize why moments like these are important. Why all of this is absolutely necessary. Traditions like this matter, not just for those of us who hold these positions but for everyone participating in and watching our democracy,” she said. “We hold an inauguration to ensure a peaceful transition of power.”
Trump has famously had a bitter relationship with the Obamas. He previously declined to invite his predecessor, former President Barack Obama, and Michelle to the White House for the unveiling of their White House portraits in an apparent snub. The two sides have traded barbs in public over recent years.
“Those of us lucky enough to serve work, as Barack said, as hard as we can for as long as we can — as long as the people choose to keep us here. And once our time is up, we move on. And all that remains in this hallowed place are our good efforts,” Michelle continued.
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President Joe Biden welcomed his onetime boss and Michelle back to the White House Wednesday to give them a ceremony for the portraits. Obama is the first black president to be honored with a portrait. Michelle took note of the significance during her speech.
“For me, this day is not just about what has happened. It’s also about what could happen because a girl like me — she was never supposed to be up there next to Jacqueline Kennedy and Dolly Madison. She was never supposed to live in this house and she definitely wasn’t supposed to serve as first lady,” Michelle added.
