Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama were not present at the funeral of former Vice President Dick Cheney on November 20, 2025, in Washington, D.C. This absence follows a trend of Michelle Obama not attending major political events throughout the year, leading to public criticism and speculation.
The Obamas’ absence was not entirely unexpected, as they also missed the 2022 funeral of former Vice President Walter Mondale. Although there is no obligation for former presidents to attend such funerals, their repeated absences have generated interest among political analysts.
Cheney, who was vice president under George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009, passed away on November 3, 2025, at the age of 84 due to complications from pneumonia and heart disease.
Throughout 2025, Michelle Obama has notably missed several significant events. She did not attend former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral on January 9, despite the presence of other living former presidents and their spouses. Additionally, she was absent from President Donald Trump’s second inauguration on January 20. Barack Obama attended both events alone, joining other former presidents and first ladies.
Michelle Obama addressed the ongoing speculation about her absences on her podcast in April 2025. Speaking with actress Taraji P. Henson, she explained that her choice to skip the inauguration was met with harsh criticism. She expressed that people misinterpreted her actions as marital issues rather than her personal decisions. Michelle emphasized her intent to prioritize her family and maintain a private life away from politics.
Other notable figures were also absent from Cheney’s funeral. President Trump and Vice President JD Vance were not invited, likely due to Trump’s contentious relationship with the Cheney family. Trump has publicly disagreed with Cheney’s daughter, former Rep. Liz Cheney, over the January 6 Capitol riot. Former President Bill Clinton was unable to attend due to a scheduling conflict.
Despite these absences, the funeral had attendance from numerous political figures across parties. Former Presidents George W. Bush and Joe Biden were the only living presidents present at the Washington National Cathedral service. All living former vice presidents except Vance attended, including Kamala Harris, Mike Pence, Al Gore, and Dan Quayle. The service was also attended by Supreme Court justices, senators, and other political leaders.
George W. Bush delivered a eulogy for his former vice president, recalling that Cheney had offered to step down in 2004 if Bush wished to replace him. Bush decided against it, stating, “There’s no one better than Dick Cheney.” Bush praised Cheney’s character as a thinker and listener in a profession often dominated by talkers.
Liz Cheney paid tribute to her father by recounting his habit of reading every sign and plaque at battlefields and museums during family trips. She wanted her father’s grandchildren to understand the sacrifices made for American freedom. She shared that her father’s last words were to tell her mother he loved her.
Former NBC correspondent Pete Williams, who served as Cheney’s Pentagon spokesman, shared a story about Cheney’s character. Williams recalled offering to resign in 1991 when a magazine planned to out him as gay. Cheney refused the resignation and continued to support him, checking in regularly.
Barack Obama, although absent from the funeral, posted a tribute on Facebook following Cheney’s death. He wrote that despite their differing political views, he respected Cheney’s dedication to public service and love for the country.
The speculation surrounding the Obamas’ relationship has intensified due to Michelle’s repeated absences. Sources close to Michelle suggest she avoids events requiring insincere appearances, especially involving Trump, who has been critical of the Obama family. Reports also hint at tension between Barack Obama and President Biden after the 2024 election, with Biden’s circle blaming Obama for influencing Biden’s decision not to run. These reports have not been confirmed by either family.
