**Michelle Obama Says the US Isn’t Ready for a Woman President, Citing Kamala Harris’ Unsuccessful Bid**
*By Kaanita Iyer | CNN | November 15, 2025*
Former First Lady Michelle Obama recently stated that the United States isn’t ready for a woman president, referencing former Vice President Kamala Harris’ unsuccessful bid for the White House last year.
“As we saw in this past election, sadly, we ain’t ready,” Obama said during a conversation with actor Tracee Ellis Ross in Brooklyn, New York. The discussion was part of an event promoting her new book, *The Look*, which explores her approach to fashion and politics during her and former President Barack Obama’s time in the White House.
Responding to Ellis Ross’ question about whether there has been enough “room” created for a woman president, Obama added, “That’s why I’m like, don’t even look at me about running ‘cause you all are lying. You’re not ready for a woman.”
She elaborated, “We got a lot of growing up to do and there’s still a lot of men who do not feel like they can be led by a woman—and we saw it.”
Michelle Obama has long been one of the Democratic Party’s most effective and popular surrogates, which has fueled speculation and desire among her supporters for her to run for president. However, she has repeatedly shut down that speculation.
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**Community Reactions**
Users on online forums have responded with mixed opinions. Some question the impact of Michelle Obama’s statement, while others discuss the qualifications of women candidates like Hillary Clinton and Kamala Harris.
One commenter stated, “They haven’t worked out well for countries who have had them,” reflecting skepticism toward female leadership.
Another wrote, “Ridiculous. We came this close to electing Hillary Clinton. Kamala failed because she has nowhere near the competence of Hillary Clinton.”
Others expressed support, saying, “America is ready for a woman president. We are not ready for Hitlery or Kamala or any other churlish, unimaginative nitwit twit like you!”
At the same time, debates about sexism and the relevance of gender to qualifications were noted, with comments emphasizing that “sexual organs and chromosomes have nothing to do with their qualifications for elected office.”
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**About the Book: The Look**
*The Look* delves into Michelle Obama’s unique interaction with fashion and politics during her tenure as First Lady. It highlights how style became a mode of communication and empowerment in the political arena.
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*Disclaimer: Opinions expressed in reader comments do not necessarily reflect the views of CNN or its management.*
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*Read more at [cnn.com](https://www.cnn.com).*
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