Melania Trump’s recent revelations about the Obamas allegedly withholding information during the Trumps’ first move into the White House have added fuel to an already contentious transition period as the former first lady prepares to return to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. In an interview with Fox & Friends host Ainsley Earhardt, Melania claimed the 2017 transition was “challenging” due to a lack of cooperation from the outgoing Obama administration.
“The first time was challenging; we didn’t have much information,” Melania said. “The information was upheld [sic] from us by the previous administration. But this time I have everything… it’s a very different transition this time, second time around.”
This comment, which some have interpreted as a swipe at the Obamas, resurrects questions about the famously awkward transfer of power in 2017, punctuated by moments like Michelle Obama fumbling with Melania’s Tiffany blue gift box on Inauguration Day. The frostiness of that exchange seems to have been symbolic of deeper tensions. Michelle Obama’s decision to skip President-elect Trump’s upcoming inauguration only underscores the lingering animosity.
While Barack Obama is confirmed to attend alongside other former presidents and their spouses, Michelle has opted out, reportedly to avoid being “fake.” According to a source quoted by Page Six, “She doesn’t have to unify around [Trump]. Her absence speaks volumes.” This will be the second high-profile event Michelle has skipped recently, following her absence at former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral last week.
Despite Michelle’s decision, Melania Trump appears focused on what lies ahead. With preparations underway for the January 20 inauguration, the former first lady has expressed confidence that this transition will be smoother. “Everything needs to be planned to the minute,” Melania explained, referencing the tight five-hour window during which the Bidens will move out and the Trumps will move in. She added that her prior experience living in the White House gives her an edge this time. “Having prior knowledge of the residence is helpful.”
Melania also shared her excitement about resuming her role as first lady, balancing her duties to the country with her responsibilities as a wife and mother. “My first priority is to be a mom, to be a First Lady, to be a wife… we have a lot to do and put the country back in shape,” she said. She hinted at slight changes to the White House decor, which she has already finalized, noting that it will be “a little different” than her first term.
This fresh start for the Trumps comes as speculation swirls around the Obamas, who have faced unconfirmed rumors about marital strain. Michelle’s noticeable absence from public events, coupled with her decision to skip the inauguration, has sparked conjecture on social media, with some fans wondering whether the couple is weathering a rough patch.
However, others have pointed out that Michelle is still grieving the recent loss of her mother, Marian Robinson, which could explain her limited public presence. At the Democratic National Convention in August, Michelle admitted, “I still feel her loss so profoundly—I wasn’t even sure I’d be steady enough to stand before you tonight.”
Meanwhile, Donald Trump, fresh off one of the most remarkable political comebacks in modern history, seems more focused on unity than reopening old wounds. His warm exchange with Barack Obama at Carter’s funeral set social media ablaze, prompting Trump to later reflect, “We have little different philosophies, right, but we probably do [like each other]. I don’t know. We just got along.”
