Critics blast the former First Lady as “out of touch” after revealing the surprising costs of presidential life — despite her family’s massive fortune
Michelle Obama is under fire after making shock claims about the “hidden costs” of living in the White House — prompting critics to accuse her of being tone-deaf and out of touch with everyday Americans.
During a May 1 appearance on The Diary of a CEO podcast, the former First Lady opened up about the financial strain she says her family endured when Barack Obama launched his presidential campaign — and even after he won.
“It’s expensive to live in the White House,” Michelle said. “You’re paying for every bit of food you eat. You’re not paying for housing and the staff in it, but everything, even travel.”
She added that if her daughters weren’t flying with the president, they had to foot the bill themselves to board Bright Star, the First Lady’s official aircraft.
“Paying for food? Must be nice.”
Online critics weren’t having it.
With an estimated net worth ranging between $70 million and $135 million, Michelle’s comments quickly triggered backlash.
“Most of us pay for food, travel, rent, insurance, and more — welcome to real life,” one user wrote on X.
Another fumed: “This is a really bad look. You’re not relatable. You’re just rich.”
Michelle, who once joked on Jimmy Kimmel Live that she was “shocked” food wasn’t included, stood by her comments — insisting she wasn’t trying to garner sympathy, but to highlight the little-known realities of presidential life.
Divorce Rumors Still Swirling
The candid moment came as Michelle and Barack Obama continue to swat down rumors of marital trouble. Speculation has been swirling ever since Barack attended key public events — including Jimmy Carter’s funeral — solo earlier this year.
Michelle says she simply made decisions that were best for her, denying any drama behind the scenes.
“If I were having problems with my husband, everybody would know about it,” she joked.
“I wouldn’t trade it,” she added about their marriage. “As the young people say… he’s my person.”
Life of Luxury
Though Michelle may have worried about costs early in their White House journey, critics point to the lavish empire the Obamas have since built:
- Multiple bestselling memoirs
- A blockbuster Netflix production deal
- Speaking fees of up to $400K for Barack, and $225K for Michelle
- Multiple luxury properties, including a $11.75M Martha’s Vineyard estate and an $18M Hawaiian retreat
Between 2005 and 2016, the Obamas reportedly brought in over $20 million — and their fortune has only soared since leaving office.
Not-So-Free Ride?
Michelle isn’t the first First Lady to mention the financial side of White House life.
Laura Bush once wrote about being “amazed” by the wardrobe expectations placed on her — and yes, she too had to foot the bill for personal items, parties, and household goods like toothpaste and toilet paper.
But with Americans facing inflation, high food costs, and housing instability, Michelle’s comments struck many as badly timed and poorly received.
“Maybe don’t cry about paying for travel when you own three mansions,” one critic wrote.
