Michelle Obama delivered veiled but sharp remarks on US politics during her first-ever speaking event in Australia, held in Melbourne on Tuesday. The former first lady spoke to a sizeable crowd at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, where ticket prices ranged from $195 to $895.
Ticket Prices and Crowd Reactions
The $895 'platinum' package promised a priority seat, an exclusive brunch, and a commemorative lanyard and tote bag. Some attendees reported last-minute upgrades due to 'a change in production requirements', and visible empty patches at the front suggested lower-than-expected demand amidst a cost-of-living crisis.
Political Commentary
Host Annabel Crabb initially stated she would not ask about current politics, citing a convention that former first ladies do not comment. Obama joked, 'And what else is there to say? I'm sorry?' She then interjected during a quote about the 'dumbest guy in politics', prompting applause and laughter. When asked about her catchphrase 'When they go low, we go high', Obama said, 'You know those folks aren't happy. You don't show up like that in the world and have that not eating away at your soul.'
Wealth and Happiness
Obama emphasised that accumulating wealth is not a measure of happiness. 'I know plenty of billionaires, many of them are not happy people in the world. They've got a lot of stuff – but that's what they focus on, just accumulating stuff.' She added, 'I guess I don't agree with the fact that they are getting away with all of this and it seems to be fine. It isn't fine. None of this is fine.'
Personal Experiences and Armour
Reflecting on racist abuse during her White House years, Obama said she had to 'build up an armour'. She criticised the current administration for launching health initiatives similar to those she was criticised for. 'The same administration that criticised me and called me the nanny state ... it was never real.' She admitted to sometimes going 'a little low' by venting in private. 'Going high isn't just a public act of stoicism all the time. It is a measure of how we should behave as adults in the real world. You go have your tantrum in the closet, like a real adult.'
Life After the White House
Obama and her husband Barack now focus on spreading hope beyond the Trump era through public speaking and their media company Higher Ground. She mentioned dream podcast guests like Dolly Parton or Elton John, but noted she has already met Nelson Mandela, two popes, Maya Angelou, Stevie Wonder, and Prince. 'We've lived an extraordinary life ... So it's hard for me to sit here and want more, because we've had so much.'
After a second show in Melbourne on Tuesday night, Obama heads to Sydney for two more shows on Thursday and Friday, hosted by the ABC's Leigh Sales.
