By Damilola Adeleke

Melania Trump has taken a subtle jab at the Obamas, claiming the transition during her first move to the White House in 2017 was “challenging.” Her remarks come as Michelle Obama announced she would not attend President-elect Donald Trump’s second inauguration next week.

In an interview with Fox News host Ainsley Earhardt, Melania compared her first White House move to the current preparation. She described the 2017 transition as difficult, citing a lack of cooperation from the outgoing administration. “The first time was challenging, we didn’t have much of the information,” she said, adding that this time she is well-prepared and “already packed.

“When asked about the Bidens’ cooperation during the current transition, Melania avoided direct criticism, stating, “They’re still living there and will be out on January 20. The transition team has only five hours to move Bidens out to move us in.”Meanwhile, Michelle Obama’s decision to skip the inauguration has sparked widespread attention. Although no official reason was given, sources suggest her absence is due to her strong disapproval of Trump, whom she reportedly views as a “threat to American democracy.” According to a source cited by PEOPLE, Michelle does not feel compelled to attend out of tradition or protocol, emphasizing, “She’s not one to plaster on a pleasant face and pretend for protocol’s sake.

“The two former first ladies have had a history of awkward interactions. During Trump’s first inauguration, Melania presented Michelle with a gift, leading to an uncomfortable moment that later went viral. Michelle later explained that the awkwardness stemmed from confusion over protocol.

Trump’s controversial decision to skip President Joe Biden’s 2021 inauguration marked the first time since 1869 that a sitting president refused to attend their successor’s swearing-in. Michelle’s absence from Trump’s upcoming ceremony highlights the continuing divide between the two families and their differing visions for the country.