The Obamas and Political Fantasies

When I was a child, my brothers and I enjoyed playing with G.I. Joe action figures. These toys engaged in battles and drove military vehicles. Sometimes, they even took a spin in Barbie’s pink Corvette, despite being too small to reach the pedals.

The satisfaction came from being able to move the figures and fit them into our chosen stories. As inanimate objects, they never objected, always staring back without expression.

Many people seem to want to treat political figures like action figures. They wish to manipulate and control leaders like Michelle and Barack Obama, along with others. For liberals, this desire often stems from a lack of diverse, progressive candidates. Historically, Democratic candidates have often been white, heterosexual males of significant means.

Public calls for Michelle Obama to run for president have persisted for more than a decade. The former first lady has been clear about her lack of interest. In a conversation with actor Tracee Ellis Ross last year, she stated, “Don’t even look at me about running ’cause you all are lying. You’re not ready for a woman.” Despite her unequivocal stance, speculation and fantasies about her political future linger, as if her consent matters little.

Michelle Obama has never held elected office. While this is not necessarily a disqualifying factor, as evidenced by the current president, standards should be considered. The risks accompanying inexperience and power are evident. Over eight years, Mrs. Obama made significant contributions as first lady. She could potentially excel as president, providing an improvement over the current administration. However, shouldn’t leaders possess both experience and the desire for their roles?

Similarly, calls persist for former President Barack Obama to counter the Trump administration or even to pursue a third term. These suggestions are akin to those from Trump surrogates Alan Dershowitz and Miriam Adelson who occasionally propose the idea for Mr. Trump.