Michelle Obama Says U.S. Still “Not Ready” for a Woman President

Michelle Obama says the United States still has a long way to go before voters are ready to elect a woman as president, pointing to the outcome of last year’s election as one clear example. Speaking with actor Tracee Ellis Ross at an event in Brooklyn, the former first lady said Harris’ unsuccessful presidential bid underscored the challenges women continue to face at the national level.

“As we saw in this past election, sadly, we ain’t ready,” Obama said when asked whether the country has made enough room for a woman to lead. She added that cultural barriers remain strong, pointing to attitudes among some men who still struggle with the idea of being led by a woman.

Obama also used the moment to again shut down speculation about her own political ambitions. She emphasized that she has no interest in running for president, a stance she has maintained for years. During the event, Obama was promoting her new book, “The Look,” which reflects on her approach to fashion, politics, and public life during her time in the White House.

Last year, Obama was one of the most prominent surrogates campaigning for Harris. At a Michigan rally just before Election Day, she warned voters about what she described as the threats posed by Trump, especially when it comes to women’s rights and health care. She urged supporters not to “hand our fates over to the likes of Trump,” stressing that Harris had proven she was ready for the responsibilities of the presidency.

Obama asked voters to consider whether the country itself was ready for that moment, a question she suggested remains unanswered.

CNN’s David Wright contributed to the report.

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