Michelle Obama: Angry or Powerful?

After announcing his presidential campaign in 2007, Barack Obama awed the nation with his plans to change the world. In 2008, Hillary Clinton took a back seat while Obama was chosen for the presidential nominee on behalf of the Democratic Party. In the midst of his articulate speeches of change and optimistic outlook on politics, the United Sates had fallen in love with him. While Barack stayed in the spotlight, his wife Michelle Obama quietly supported her husband, yet ultimately remained a mystery throughout the beginning of her husband's campaign. American's were eager to know more about her, as was the media.

When asked in multiple interviews why she had not been in the forefront of the campaign with her husband Michelle would simply say "My job is not a senior adviser." She is a dedicated mother who felt being home with her two children was important and limited her time she spent on the campaign trail. While Michelle Obama did quietly emerge onto stage after her husband's nomination, onlookers quickly gained respect for this woman who grew up on the South side of Chicago and overcame many obstacles. She is a graduate of Princeton University as well as Harvard Law School where she excelled in her studies and even challenged the University's' lack of minority professors. The majority of those who have met Michelle in person can't deny her likability and down to earth nature.

Some media sources have portrayed her as cold hearted and angry; in fact some said that she was "an angry black woman." This is a typical stereotype of strong, intelligent women. She responded to the name calling by gracefully saying, "Barack and I have been in the public eye for many years now, and we've developed a thick skin along the way. When you're out campaigning, there will always be criticism. I just take it in stride, and at the end of the day, I know that it comes with the territory." Michelle Obama expected the negative press and in February 2008 she got just that. While giving a speech in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on her husband's behalf she made the statement, "For the first time in my adult life, I am proud of my country because it feels like hope is finally making a comeback." The media leaped at the chance to twist the statement into something other than what was intended. Laura Bush took up for Michelle Obama and explained "I think she probably meant I'm 'more proud,' you know, is what she really meant."

Many look to Michelle Obama as a role model, not only to African American girls, but to everybody overcoming obstacles and working hard to achieve their dreams. She has broken the mold and set a new standard for Americans, not to mention has become one of the few politicians the general public can relate to.

As Michelle Obama continues to be scrutinized and labeled as "an angry woman" like most women are in politics, we should not expect to see her back away from supporting her husband. She will continue to warm our hearts and bring a sense of normalcy to the campaign. If the Democratic Party ends the campaign victoriously, this all American, powerful woman will serve as a much needed change in the White House as first lady.