Former US First Lady Michelle Obama has come under criticism after saying she does not miss having her adult daughters, Malia and Sasha, living at home.
Obama made the remarks during an appearance on Jon Stewart’s “IMO” podcast, where she was asked if she missed the everyday routine of raising her children.
“I’m good.”
She explained that she now enjoys having control over her own schedule, but later clarified that her comments were not a reflection of how much she loves her daughters.
“I don’t miss them. I don’t. I love them. I’m going to see them tonight for dinner.”
Obama also recalled how her husband, former President Barack Obama, reacted when their daughters left for college, saying he became emotional while she had a different response.
“But Barack cried when they went to college. I was like, ‘Bye, little — goodbye.’”
The former First Lady said she welcomed the independence that came with her daughters growing up and having their own lives.
“I love my schedule. I have a great schedule, and it’s all mine.”
Her comments, however, sparked backlash, with some critics accusing her of sounding resentful about motherhood.
Elizabeth Barcohana, a California Republican Party delegate, argued that there was a difference between acknowledging the challenges of parenting and appearing unhappy that the child-rearing years had ended.
Despite the criticism, Obama maintained that she had dedicated significant time to raising her daughters and knew them “inside and out.”
