Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama were not present at the funeral of former Vice President Dick Cheney, held on November 20, 2025, in Washington, D.C. This absence aligns with Michelle Obama’s pattern of missing key political gatherings throughout the year, leading to widespread speculation and public criticism.
The absence of the Obamas was somewhat anticipated, as they also did not attend the 2022 funeral of former Vice President Walter Mondale. While it is not mandatory for former presidents to attend such funerals, their consistent non-attendance has caught the attention of political analysts.
Dick Cheney, who served as vice president under George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009, passed away on November 3, 2025, at the age of 84 due to complications from pneumonia and heart disease.
Throughout 2025, Michelle Obama has been notably absent from several high-profile events. She did not attend former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral on January 9, despite the presence of all other living former presidents and their spouses. Additionally, she was absent from President Donald Trump’s second inauguration on January 20, although her husband, Barack, attended both events, sitting with other former presidents and first ladies.
In April 2025, Michelle Obama addressed the speculation surrounding her absences during an appearance on her podcast with Taraji P. Henson. She explained her decision to skip the inauguration and make personal choices led to harsh criticism. She expressed that people assumed her marriage was in trouble rather than understanding her need to make choices beneficial to her. Michelle indicated she is learning to decline events that do not align with her priorities, focusing on family and a private life away from politics.
In addition to the Obamas, President Trump and Vice President JD Vance were not invited to Cheney’s funeral, likely due to Trump’s contentious history with the Cheney family. Trump has publicly clashed with Cheney’s daughter, former Rep. Liz Cheney, who criticized Trump’s actions related to the January 6 Capitol riot. Former President Bill Clinton also did not attend due to a scheduling conflict.
Despite these notable absences, the funeral saw a significant gathering of political figures from both parties. Former Presidents George W. Bush and Joe Biden were the only living presidents in attendance at the Washington National Cathedral service. All living former vice presidents, except Vance, were present, including Kamala Harris, Mike Pence, Al Gore, and Dan Quayle. Supreme Court justices, senators, and other political leaders also attended the memorial service.
George W. Bush delivered a eulogy recalling his former vice president, noting that in 2004, Cheney offered to step down if Bush wanted a replacement. After witnessing Cheney’s handling of responsibility and pressure over four years, Bush concluded that there’s no one better than Dick Cheney. Bush also highlighted Cheney’s character, emphasizing that in a profession of talkers, Cheney was a thinker and a listener.
Liz Cheney provided an emotional tribute, recounting how her father would thoroughly read every sign and plaque at battlefields and museums during family outings. She wished for her father’s grandchildren to comprehend the sacrifices made by prior generations for American freedom. Liz Cheney shared that her father’s final words were a message of love to her mother.
Former NBC correspondent Pete Williams, who worked as Cheney’s Pentagon spokesman, shared a story illustrating Cheney’s character. He recounted offering to resign in 1991 when a magazine planned to out him as gay. Cheney refused his resignation and checked on him for days, encouraging him to continue his work.
Although Barack Obama did not attend the funeral, he posted a tribute on Facebook after Cheney’s death, stating that despite their differing political views, he respected Cheney’s lifelong dedication to public service and his love for the country.
The ongoing speculation about the Obamas’ relationship has intensified due to Michelle’s repeated absences from significant events. Sources close to Michelle suggest she refuses to put on a facade for protocol, particularly around Trump, who has attacked the Obama family. Reports have also hinted at potential tension between Barack Obama and President Biden following the 2024 election, with Biden’s circle allegedly blaming Obama for pushing Biden out of the presidential race, though these reports remain unverified by both families.
As Michelle Obama continues to step back from the political arena, her decision to avoid these key events has sparked considerable public discussion and media coverage.
