Trump’s “Little Fun” Comment About Michelle Obama Sparks Backlash on Social Media
During a rally in Lititz, Pennsylvania, on Sunday, November 2, former President Donald Trump stirred controversy with remarks about Michelle Obama, responding to her recent criticisms of him. The 78-year-old Republican nominee remarked that Michelle had made a “big mistake” by attacking him, suggesting he’d now have a “little fun” with her, sparking immediate backlash online.
“I took over the mess that Barack Hussein Obama, who’s a big divider, who’s a major troublemaker,” Trump began. “And I have always treated his wife with respect, but she came at me the other day. That is not nice of her to do. And I think we are going to start having a little fun with Michelle.” The crowd of Trump supporters cheered loudly in response.
Trump’s comments appeared to reference Michelle Obama’s recent speech in Michigan on October 26, where she urged Americans to consider Trump’s “gross incompetence” and reminded them that “women will become collateral damage” under his leadership. She further expressed frustration that, while Trump’s actions were ignored by some, Vice President Kamala Harris was expected “to dazzle us at every turn.” Michelle encouraged voters to take the upcoming election seriously to protect their rights and futures.
However, Trump’s “little fun” remark quickly ignited outrage on X, formerly Twitter, where users criticized him for targeting one of the most admired figures in the Democratic Party. Michelle Obama, known for her widespread influence and respect, is viewed as a powerful voice among both men and women in the Democratic base.
Many social media users responded with strong objections to Trump’s comments. One user, @CosmykGyrl, warned Trump, “If he wanted even more reason to piss off Black American women… play around with Michelle if you want to…” Another @JRAtotoro, added, “All women, really. She’s revered.” @Ruth31533, who identified as a white woman, declared, “White woman here, ready to defend Michelle!! Going after Michelle would be a bad decision. He would lose even more support.”
A supporter of Kamala Harris, @StrictlyChristo, sharply criticized Trump, tweeting, “Keep Michelle Obama’s name out of your mouth, you insignificant pissant!” Another user, @ZionDarkwood, expressed concern, “Trump is calling for his MAGA Nazis to do harm to Michelle Obama. ‘We are going to start having a little fun with Michelle.’ This man is sick in the head, and we need to make sure he never steps foot in the White House again.”
Further backlash emphasized perceptions of Trump’s treatment of women. @Suzierizzo1 tweeted, “He never treated either one of them with respect and never will.” She added that Trump’s claim of inheriting a “mess” from Obama was inaccurate, arguing that Obama’s administration left behind one of the country’s strongest economies. Another user, @ShaunT, issued a warning: “Try going after Michelle. We dare you!!”
Facing the mounting backlash, Trump later acknowledged that his advisors had cautioned him against targeting Michelle Obama. In remarks shared by The Telegraph, Trump revealed his team’s advice, saying, “I was going to say to my people: ‘Am I allowed to hit her now?’ They said, ‘Take it easy, sir. Sir, take it easy.’ My geniuses, they said, ‘Just take it easy.’” Trump then questioned why he couldn’t respond to her criticism, to which his advisors reassured him, “Sir, you’re winning, just relax.”
Trump’s remarks have fueled heated discussions online, with many viewing his words as inappropriate and indicative of a longstanding disregard for prominent female figures who criticize him. As the election draws near, the response to his comments underscores Michelle Obama’s lasting influence and the risks associated with targeting her in the public sphere.