Former United States First Lady Michelle Obama has made a striking declaration about America's political landscape, stating that the nation remains unprepared to elect a woman as president.
Revealing Comments During Book Promotion
The 61-year-old made these candid remarks while promoting her new book, "The Look", during an event at the Brooklyn Academy of Music. The discussion was moderated by actor Tracee Ellis Ross and later posted on Obama's YouTube channel over the weekend of November 15-16, 2025.
"As we saw in the past election, sadly, we ain't ready," Obama stated emphatically when questioned about the possibility of a female president. She directly addressed those who have encouraged her to run for office, asserting: "That's why I'm like, don't even look at me about running, because you all are lying. You're not ready for a woman. You are not."
Persistent Speculation and Political Reality
The mother of two has consistently faced speculation and calls to pursue the presidency but has repeatedly emphasized her lack of interest in seeking the Oval Office. When Ross asked if her time in the White House from 2009 to 2017 had paved the way for a woman president, Obama responded with stark realism.
"You know, we got a lot of growing up to do, and there's still, sadly, a lot of men who do not feel like they can be led by a woman, and we saw it," Obama charged, highlighting what she perceives as a fundamental barrier in American politics.
Political Context and Harris Endorsement
Obama's comments come in the wake of her support for former Vice President Kamala Harris, whose 2024 White House bid against President Trump ended unsuccessfully. Last year, the former first lady had urged voters to support Harris, warning that Trump represented a threat to the country.
Her recent statements suggest a sober assessment of the challenges women continue to face in reaching the highest levels of American political leadership, despite decades of progress in other areas.