by Amanda Ireland in Politics

Former President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama are addressing rumors about a divorce head-on in an episode of her podcast released Wednesday. Barack Obama jokingly stated on the “IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson” podcast, “She took me back! It was touch and go for a while.” Speculation about the former first couple’s marriage has run rampant in recent months, fueled by Michelle Obama's absence from several public appearances, including President Donald Trump's inauguration. Michelle Obama's brother, Craig Robinson, recounted an airport encounter where a woman asked about the state of their marriage, highlighting the pervasiveness of these rumors. Michelle Obama affirmed her commitment to her marriage, stating, “There hasn’t been one moment in our marriage where I’ve thought about quitting on my man.” She also addressed previous criticism regarding her decision not to attend Trump's inauguration, clarifying that her choices were misinterpreted. The Obamas also discussed the importance of nurturing young men, noting a political shift where some men feel unseen and unheard, leading to susceptibility to divisive rhetoric. Barack Obama, raised by a single mother, shared his reflections on father-son relationships and the need for greater investment in boys' well-being.