Barack Obama talks ‘deep deficit’ with Michelle as divorce rumors swirl

• Former President Barack Obama admitted he’s working to dig himself out of a “deep deficit” with Michelle Obama, acknowledging that his presidency strained their marriage. He shared during a Hamilton College event that he’s been reconnecting with Michelle by doing more “fun things” together.
• Michelle Obama also opened up about their relationship on her podcast, emphasizing how Barack’s emotional support, rather than financial stability, drew her to him.
• Their transparency comes amid swirling divorce rumors, fueled by Michelle’s absence from key events and online speculation, including a debunked rumor linking Barack to actress Jennifer Aniston.

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The former president recently said he’s trying to dig himself out of a “deep deficit” with Michelle Obama. This rare public admission comes as both Obamas speak more candidly about their relationship.

Obama made the comment during a conversation at Hamilton College on Thursday. He acknowledged that his two-term presidency placed a strain on their marriage, sharing that he’s been trying to reconnect by doing more “fun things” with Michelle.

Michelle opens up too

Michelle Obama is also getting real about their relationship. On the latest episode of her podcast, “In My Opinion,” co-hosted with her brother Craig Robinson, she spoke about how financial stability wasn’t what drew her to Barack.

Michelle recalled how she left her job at a corporate law firm when they met. What stood out to her wasn’t Barack’s income — it was the emotional support he offered.

“I had somebody who was like, ‘I got your back. The risks you think you’re taking, they aren’t that crazy, and I’m here to help you.’ That’s when I said, ‘I would rather have that in a partner than a higher income.’”

Rumors continue to swirl

The couple’s recent transparency comes as divorce rumors continue to swirl. Observers noted that Michelle Obama did not attend the funeral of former President Jimmy Carter or Donald Trump’s inauguration with Barack.

He was also seen courtside at a Los Angeles Clippers game without Michelle. TMZ reported he had dinner the night before with daughters Sasha and Malia — again without Michelle present.

Michelle made her first public appearance since the inauguration at SXSW in March. At the event, she briefly addressed the growing rumors and the pressure that comes with being in the public eye.

Online speculation also ramped up last year when a tabloid linked Barack Obama to actress Jennifer Aniston. The actress denied the rumor during an appearance on “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” saying she has only met him once and knows Michelle more.

Tuning out the noise

At SXSW, Michelle Obama offered advice on how she protects her peace and her family, especially when facing negativity online. She said the best way to manage constant attention is to block out the noise entirely.

She added that she’s never read the comment section — and doesn’t plan to.