Amid a wave of national grief, former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama were spotted enjoying a luxurious getaway on filmmaker Steven Spielberg’s $250 million superyacht off the Italian coast, as the New York Post reports.

The Obamas’ opulent vacation in the Italian Riviera on Spielberg’s 357-foot yacht, Seven Seas, unfolded as over 200,000 mourners gathered in Arizona to honor the late Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot earlier this month.

The somber event in the United States contrasted sharply with the images of the former first couple relaxing in Portofino. Their trip has also reignited public speculation about their personal life, despite Michelle Obama’s recent denials of any issues.

Arriving in style

The Obamas’ vacation began on Friday afternoon when Michelle arrived at the yacht, dressed casually in a denim-on-denim outfit. She was warmly welcomed by Spielberg with a heartfelt embrace as she boarded the Seven Seas.

Barack Obama joined her on Saturday evening around 10 p.m., accompanied by a significant security detail.

His entourage included members of Italy’s intelligence agency DIGOS, diplomatic vehicles, bomb-sniffing dogs, and the Italian military police, known as the carabinieri.

The couple spent Saturday night aboard the yacht, which remained docked in Portofino due to rough seas. They stayed sheltered on the vessel, ensuring their safety during the inclement weather.

Luxurious moments unfold

On Sunday morning, the Obamas enjoyed breakfast on the yacht before heading out for a midday meal.

They dined at Punta Chiappa near Camogli, a scenic spot along the Italian coast.

Later that day, photographs captured the couple dancing and laughing during lunch with Spielberg and his wife, actress Kate Capshaw. Both Barack and Michelle appeared to be in high spirits, smiling widely in the images.

Barack was also seen working on his laptop while aboard the yacht, balancing leisure with what appeared to be professional responsibilities. The scene painted a picture of relaxation mixed with moments of focus.

Public grief over Kirk continues

While the Obamas vacationed in Italy, a massive crowd of over 200,000 mourners gathered at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. They came together for a remembrance ceremony honoring Charlie Kirk, who was tragically shot on Sept. 10 at Utah Valley University.

Kirk, a prominent conservative figure and co-founder of Turning Point USA, was remembered by many for his influence on young activists. The scale of the memorial underscored the significant impact of his loss on his supporters and the broader community.

The timing of the Obamas’ getaway drew attention due to the stark contrast between their leisurely trip and the national mourning in Arizona. Public reactions have varied, with some focusing on the optics of their absence from domestic events during this period.

Speculation surrounds marriage

Adding another layer to the story, rumors of marital discord between Barack and Michelle have resurfaced during this trip. Speculation grew earlier this year when Michelle did not attend two high-profile events: Donald Trump’s inauguration and former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral.

In response to these whispers, Michelle addressed the issue directly on her podcast, IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson, in a July episode. She firmly stated, “There hasn’t been one moment in our marriage where I have thought about quitting my man.”

Despite her clear rebuttal, the public’s interest in their relationship persists, amplified by their visible togetherness on this Italian vacation.

The images of the couple enjoying each other’s company may help to counter ongoing narratives, though opinions remain divided.