Ahead of her big speech tonight at the Democratic National Convention, we had a chance to speak with Michelle Obama about what this election means for women.
by Annie Scudder
Ahead of her big speech tonight at the Democratic National Convention, we had a chance to speak with Michelle Obama about what this election means for women. As a woman and mother, whose eldest daughter, Malia, is starting high school today, Michelle is proud of what her husband has accomplished in the past four years. And she said come November, "there is so much on the line for us as women." Here are the highlights from our call with the first lady:
On Her Convention Speech
"As you know, tonight's a big night for me and for the Democratic party as I speak on the first night of the convention here in Charlotte," Michelle Obama told us on Tuesday afternoon. "Tonight I'm looking forward to reminding people across the country about the qualities and the experiences that make my husband the man and the president that he is today." Michelle wants people to know that "Barack is still that leader" America elected four years ago. She explained, "He's still driven by those core values and principles that make him want to do this incredibly tough job."
On Her Relationship With President Obama
"I've had an up close look at how hard Barack has worked to move this country forward to rescue our economy and rebuild our middle class and give our kids the opportunities they deserve." Of her upcoming speech, she said it has given her "an opportunity to reminisce about our lives together and how we grew up."
On Mothers and Families
"I know moms across the country are busy this week with school starting up," Michelle said as a mother herself. "In fact, I'm sitting here anxiously wondering how Malia and Sasha's first day is going." Michelle believes that this busy time of year for moms helps put this election in perspective: "We're doing everything that we can, all of us, to prepare our children for the next coming school year. But many of the issues that we're debating this election will affect them not just when they're in school but for their entire future. It's going to affect the futures of their own children as well."
Keep reading for her thoughts on health care, fair pay, and more.
