If Malia or Sasha Obama ever became president, who would be the better leader?
At a star-studded fundraiser for President Joe Biden in Los Angeles on Saturday, former President Barack Obama was posed the question and revealed whether his beloved daughters would even follow in their father’s footsteps into politics.
“That is a question I do not need to answer because [former first lady] Michelle [Obama] drilled into them so early that you would be crazy to go into politics. It will never happen,” the 62-year-old dad of two said.
Former President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama participate in the unveiling of their official portraits during a ceremony at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery, on February 12, 2018 in Washington, DC.
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“They’re powerful young women,” Biden added, saying that some of his grandchildren are close friends with the Obama sisters.
President Joe Biden speaks flanked by former President Barack Obama onstage during a campaign fundraiser at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on June 15, 2024.
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Malia Obama, the eldest of the two siblings, is pursuing a screenwriting and directing career. The 25-year-old made her red carpet debut at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival earlier this year in January, where she presented her short film, “The Heart.”
President Barack Obama walks with his wife Michelle Obama, and two daughters Malia Obama and Sasha Obama, through Lafayette Park to St John’s Church to attend service October 27, 2013 in Washington, DC.
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Younger sister Sasha Obama graduated from the University of Southern California in May 2023 and turned 23 a week ago. To mark the milestone, proud mom Michelle Obama celebrated her with a special birthday tribute on Instagram.
“Happy birthday, Sasha! You make me so incredibly proud,” the former first lady wrote in a caption accompanying a photo of the mother-daughter duo embracing. “Hope this year brings you everything you want and more. Love you. 💕.”
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In honor of Father’s Day Sunday, Barack Obama shared a family snapshot on Instagram of him with his wife and children posing in front of a waterfall.
“Happy Father’s Day! The most fulfilling job I’ve ever had is being Sasha and Malia’s dad. To all those lucky enough to take on the role of being a father, I hope you enjoy your day,” he wrote in the caption.
Former First Lady Michelle Obama has reportedly advised her daughters, Malia and Sasha, to steer clear of politics, according to her husband, former President Barack Obama. In a recent interview with People magazine, Obama shared that his wife has encouraged their daughters to pursue their own passions and interests, rather than follow in their parents’ footsteps.
Michelle Obama has been a vocal advocate for women and girls, using her platform to promote education, health, and empowerment. However, she has also been candid about the challenges and scrutiny that come with being in the public eye, particularly in the political arena. In an interview with Oprah Winfrey in 2018, she expressed her concerns about the toll that politics can take on families, stating, “It’s tough on a marriage. It’s hard on your kids. They didn’t ask for this.”
Barack Obama echoed his wife’s sentiments in the People interview, acknowledging the sacrifices that come with a life in politics. He emphasized the importance of allowing their daughters to find their own paths and make their own decisions, free from the pressures of public life.
While Malia and Sasha have both shown an interest in social justice and activism, they have also pursued their own passions outside of politics. Malia is currently studying at Harvard University, while Sasha is attending the University of Michigan. Both young women have been involved in various extracurricular activities and internships, demonstrating their commitment to making a difference in the world in their own unique ways.
The Obamas’ decision to encourage their daughters to stay out of politics reflects a desire to protect them from the intense scrutiny and criticism that often comes with public life. By allowing Malia and Sasha to forge their own paths and pursue their own passions, the Obamas are setting an example of prioritizing personal fulfillment and well-being over external expectations.
In a time when political divisions are increasingly polarized and public figures face constant scrutiny, Michelle Obama’s advice to her daughters serves as a reminder of the importance of staying true to oneself and following one’s own path. As Malia and Sasha continue to navigate their own journeys, they can take comfort in knowing that they have the support and guidance of their parents, who have always put their well-being and happiness first.
