(WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.) — Former First Lady Michelle Obama will not attend President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. This marks the second time in two weeks she’s missed a gathering of former U.S. leaders and their spouses. However, former Presidents Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush will be present.
Laura Bush and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton will join their husbands at the January 20th swearing-in ceremony at the Capitol.
“Former President Barack Obama is confirmed to attend the 60th Inaugural Ceremonies. Former first lady Michelle Obama will not attend the upcoming inauguration,” a statement from the Office of Barack and Michelle Obama shared with The Associated Press confirmed.
No reason was given for Michelle Obama’s absence. She also skipped a Washington service for former President Jimmy Carter, which was attended by former Presidents Trump, Obama, Bush, and Clinton, and their spouses—except for her.
Bill Clinton’s attendance at the swearing-in ceremony was confirmed by a source familiar with his schedule. A spokesperson also confirmed Hillary Clinton’s attendance.
The Office of George W. Bush confirmed that he and Laura Bush will attend.
Michelle Obama was the only spouse absent from last week’s service at Washington National Cathedral, where her husband and Mr. Trump sat together and interacted cordially, despite their history of political differences.
All three former presidents and their wives attended Trump’s first inauguration in 2017, including Hillary Clinton, following her 2016 election loss to Trump. Carter also attended.