Exploring Rumored Tensions Between Michelle Obama and Biden Family
Recent reports reveal a growing rift between Michelle Obama and the Biden family, stemming from personal and political complexities.
Michelle Obama's relationship with the Bidens has reportedly grown tense, partly due to her allegiance to Hunter Biden's ex-wife, Kathleen Buhle, as Nicki Swift reports.
Mrs. Obama, the former first lady, is reportedly experiencing a strained relationship with the Biden family, though this hostility is said to exclude Jill Biden. The tension seems to have originated from Hunter Biden's divorce from Kathleen Buhle, a close friend of Michelle's.
In 2017, Buhle filed for divorce, citing Hunter's extravagant spending on drugs, alcohol, and other vices. This divorce has had lasting repercussions, influencing Michelle's interactions with the Biden family. During Buhle's testimony from in Hunter's recent gun case, she detailed her former spouse's drug use during their marriage, revealing the personal struggles within their relationship.
Michelle Obama's Solidarity with Kathleen Buhle
Reports suggest that Michelle Obama has distanced herself from the Biden family due to their treatment of Buhle in the wake of the divorce. This decision has led to her absence from several significant events hosted by the Biden family. For instance, in 2017, shortly after Hunter began a relationship with Beau Biden's widow, Hailie Biden, Michelle chose not to attend a fundraiser for the Beau Biden Foundation.
Additionally, Buhle's close relationship with Michelle has been publicly displayed on numerous occasions, as she was seen on a ski trip with Michelle's daughters, Sasha and Malia, in March 2017.
Interpersonal Relationships and Political Ramifications
Maisy Biden, Kathleen's youngest daughter, maintains a close friendship with Sasha Obama, further entwining the familial ties between the Obamas and Buhles.
In her 2023 memoir, Michelle Obama highlighted the emotional support she received from both her mother and Kathleen Buhle during her time in the White House. Meanwhile, Kathleen Buhle's memoir, which details her marriage and subsequent divorce from Hunter Biden, offers an inside look at the personal challenges she faced during their tumultuous relationship.
The Political Landscape and Michelle's Hesitation
In June 2022, Buhle spoke candidly about her forgiveness of Hunter's spending habits, which included substantial amounts of drugs and illicit activities.
In November of the same year, Michelle Obama expressed her hesitation about endorsing Joe Biden for re-election. She hinted at potential personal political aspirations, although she has consistently denied any intentions of running for president. This stance of Michelle, alongside her friendship with Buhle, underscores the complex layers of personal and political relationships affecting her engagement with the Biden family.
Public Statements and Official Responses
Kathleen Buhle claimed in court that Hunter Biden spent a significant amount on "drugs, alcohol, prostitutes, strip clubs, and gifts for women with whom he has sexual relations," revealing the depth of his issues.
An insider conveyed to Axios that Michelle's absence from Biden family events was a gesture of solidarity with Buhle. However, Michelle's spokesperson refuted this, stating, "[S]he is friends with Kathleen and with the Bidens. Two things can be true."
Andrew Bates, a White House representative, reinforced the notion of familial bonds between the Bidens and Obamas, describing them as "like family to one another."
Insights Into Michelle and Kathleen's Bond
Michelle Obama shared in her memoir how her friendship with Buhle helped her emotionally, providing "laughter and love," a testament to the strength of their bond.
Bates also confirmed that Michelle and Barack Obama remain staunch supporters of Joe Biden, despite talk of any personal tensions.
Michelle's contemplative stance on Biden's re-election was encapsulated in past words to CNN: "You know... I will have to see. It's a personal decision that he and his family have to make," highlighting the complexities of political support in personal relationships.
Clarifications From Michelle Obama's Office
Crystal Carson, director of communications for Michelle Obama's office, formally stated to NBC News that despite speculations, Michelle Obama has no desire to run for president, as she has often clarified over the years.
This declaration is part of a broader narrative of Michelle navigating her post-White House life, balancing personal allegiances with public and political expectations.
The evolving dynamics within these prominent political families continue to captivate public attention, underscoring the delicate balance between personal relationships and public roles.
In conclusion, Michelle Obama's nuanced stance towards the Biden family illustrates the complexities of interpersonal relationships within political spheres. Her solidarity with Kathleen Buhle and her cautious approach to political endorsements reflect the ongoing negotiations of loyalty and political alignment in her life after the White House.