Former First Lady Michelle Obama took aim at the 45th president during an event at the White House.
On Monday, former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama returned to the White House to unveil their portraits.
âI do recognize why moments like these are important. Why all of this is absolutely necessary. Traditions like this matter, not just for those of us who hold these positions but for everyone participating in and watching our democracy,â the former first lady said.
She continued, âThe people make their voices heard with their vote. We hold an inauguration to ensure a peaceful transition of power. Those of us lucky enough to serve work, as Barack said, as hard as we can for as long as we can â as long as the people choose to keep us here.â
âAnd once our time is up, we move on. And all that remains in this hallowed place are our good efforts,â she added.
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Her comments appeared to be a reference to former President Donald Trumpâs repeated claims that the 2020 election was stolen, and the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol.
Trump did not attend President Joe Bidenâs inauguration on Jan. 20, 2021.
Biden said during Wednesdayâs event, âJill and I have been waiting to host events at the White House for a long time coming out of the pandemic, and itâs fitting that we can do that now by unveiling the portraits of two great friends, two great Americans
Speaking at the event, Barack Obama said, âJoe, it is now Americaâs good fortune to have you as president.â
âYou have guided us through some perilous times. Youâve built on and gone beyond the work we all did together,â he added.
He also insisted, âThe country is better off than when Joe Biden took office, and we should all be deeply grateful for that.â
NPR notes that the event on Wednesday was the first time in over a decade that a former president was invited back to the White House to unveil their portrait.
Trump did not hold a portrait ceremony for Barack Obama while he was in office.
