Why Michelle Obama’s Tribute to Her Husband Left America in Tears

On June 18, former President and First Lady Barack and Michelle Obama joined celebrities and community members to celebrate the official opening of the Barack Obama Presidential Center. While the crowd was entertained by performances from John Legend and Stevie Wonder, one of the highlights of the ceremony was a moving speech by the former First Lady that left nearly everyone in the crowd reaching for tissues.

After thanking everyone who was involved in bringing the project to life, Mrs. Obama expressed her appreciation to those who came out in support of the opening, including former First Ladies Hillary Clinton, Laura Bush, and Jill Biden, as well as former presidents Bill Clinton, Joe Biden, and George W. Bush.

Related: A Sneak Peek Inside The Brand New Obama Presidential Center

But what started as a standard, professional speech quickly turned emotional when the former First Lady took the time to acknowledge her husband’s accomplishments during his eight years as president and “fully sing his praises.” Mrs. Obama began by reflecting on how their relationship developed from a mentor-mentee relationship at a Chicago law firm to a 33-year marriage.

“You told me all those years ago that you couldn’t promise me the world, but you could promise me an interesting life. And of course, you outdid yourself and managed to give me both,” she said.

She went on to praise her husband for his ability to lead the nation as president despite all the challenges and setbacks he faced, including the criticisms hurled at him by those who doubted his ability because of his skin color.  

“Eight years in the crucible, and not once did you melt from the heat. Not once did you let it harden you,” she said. “Instead, you used it to reveal your truest essence. Your stubborn optimism and unflinching courage, your dazzling brilliance and unpretentious decency, your ferocious work ethic and unshakable moral fiber.”

Mrs. Obama’s words moved the audience, as many in attendance, including her husband, appeared visibly choked up. But the woman who coined the phrase, “When they go low, we go high,” also managed to slip in a clever but classy dig at President Donald Trump, listing all of the progress President Obama achieved while in office. She pointed out that, along with regulating banks and expanding healthcare, he also won a Nobel Peace Prize, something President Donald Trump has still not been able to secure for himself.

She ended her nearly 20-minute speech by thanking the former President for being someone the country could look up to.

“It has been an honor to be by your side,” she said. “You have made me a better person and given us all an example that we should strive to emulate.”

Following Mrs. Obama’s remarks, reactions online were enthusiastic.

“Michelle Obama just delivered one of the best speeches I’ve ever heard. She upheld her husband’s legacy, defended the dignity of all people, appealed to our better angels, & reminded us of the America that we could be,” wrote someone on X. “What a contrast to the depravity occupying the White House.”

Others commented on how perfect the former first couple are for each other.

“Barack and Michelle won the lottery when they found each other and made a life together. Outstanding couple!” wrote someone on YouTube.

Another commenter, who was moved by the speech, offered a gentle suggestion to Mrs. Obama to consider making a run for the White House in the 2028 Presidential election.

“The woman slayed. She won’t do it but Michelle for president,” on X.