Michelle I thought caring was lost, I thought nobody cared anymore. Ithought I had nothing in common with the people I voted for. I thought they abandoned me, I thought it never mattered who I voted for I thought money was a priority and me with no money who would help me? I lost hope.

maggie hittinger, Anaheim, USA

I just want to say I have a greater sense of pride living in a time to witness such a historical event. Not only do I see a family fulfilling a God given purpose but a family presented before the world to remind us of the love, loyalty, devotion, committment and respect we should have for family.

Belinda, Atlanta, United States

I am sooo proud of this time in history where I get to witness our first Black President and to see the love, respect, committment and devotion between you and your husband. My prayer for you is "no weapon formed against you shall prosper and every tongue that rises against you shall be condemned.

Belinda, Atlanta, United States

We may not agree on all the issues, but I find common ground with this woman who isn't ashamed to be a mom first! I hope she brings some family pride back into the White House. You go, Michelle!

Tammy, Asheboro, NC

Peace between Israel and the Palestinians should be number 1 priority.

R McQuoid, London, Uk

Yes I'm sure you'll see to it that Malia and Sasha live healthy lives though the idea of "normal" has to be adjusted to normal for daughters of a president that have secret service men and women guarding them all the time.Barack and Michelle Obama are have indeed earned the title of "First Family".

Clarence McNair, Syracuse, United States

Ravi, Barack Obama and his wife are living examples of meritocracy; they don't need to speak of it, they epitomize the concept. Pat, Michelle Obama grew up in a black, working-class home on Chicago's South Side. Of course she knows how "real people" live.

Lili, Chicago, USA

It's time for you dissenting Republicans to just get out of the way. You had your chance, and you destroyed the country with your absurd support of Bush's negative, divisive policies. As for Michelle, I think all First Ladies should stay in the background. she is not an elected official.

Tom Stark, Minneapolis, USA

It is quite obvious, from the brief candid moments we've seen, that the young Obama girls are sweet, well grounded, and beautiful. LIfe will never be the same for these girls, but what a wonderful life full of hope and opportunity they will lead!

Vicky, Cincinnati, USA

Hi my name is Dr. Sophia Rolle. My twin and I, Dr. Bridgette Rolle from The Bahamas wish to extend our kudos. As an educator, I am gratified that two super educated and ultra classy fellow educators have been elavated to the highest office in the US. Congratualtions, an do visit with us soon.

Dr. Sophia Rolle, Nassau, Bahamas

A year from now we'll see how much better things are. I'm all for protecting our children from all the scum on TV but the people who support Obama the most are the ones making the most trash. At least now it may be popular to be an intact family again.

Dee, Pismo Beach, USA

Dear Honorable First Lady Elect:
I am so glad that you are a Mother who respects children. Could you please influence the FCC to control the advertisement of erection drugs during sporting events? I like to watch baseball with my daughters ages 3, 5, and 7. What is this worth? Where will it end?

D Graham, Portland, OR, USA

Hello my name is Shetika & I am a resident of Cleve, OH. It was a wonderful feeling when I saw that night that Obama had won Ohio. I just wish that my grandmother and father would have been alive to see history be made. Malia and Sasha take good care of your parents & always stay sweet little girls.

Shetika Vallentine, Cleveland, USA

Michelle is a marvelous woman and will be the perfect asset to President Elect Barack Obama. You have to be unselfish to allow your husband to be so involved with running a nation. All cudos to this lady who has the character of Jackie Onasis Kennedy.

Sharon, Shippensburg, USA

hi Michelle , my name is Janet and i am a resident of Jamaica. I was very proud of the way you handled yourself on your husband's big night. It is indeed a big honor for me and my family to watch history being made. We love you and wish only the best for you guys. Hi, Malia and Sasha, well done.

janet, savlamar, jamaica

Dear Jennifer (Santa Fe), are you suggesting that the other Presidents were color blind or was that just a stupid dig provoked by your fear that Obama will avenge the US's poor treatment of non-whites? Don't be pathetic; he has bigger fish to fry!

Sheila Atuona, London, UK

Sick days: My partner has been working as a chef in the same restaurant for 16+ years with no paid sick days, paid holidays, or health coverage.
Kids: my 9-yr-old nephew is well-informed and interested in politics. I bet Malia and Sasha are too, and have a choice about their role in the campaign.

Jane G., New York City, USA

The angst of some of my fellow American's against Michele Obama is pathetic.

Kelly, Gig Harbor, USA

I am a liberal democrat, I am NOT anti-Christ, I am pro-choice, NOT pro-abortion, I am anti-war NOT anti-American. Allow Obama to lead the U.S. and see what he can do to unravel the turmoil set forth by the current administration. we have bigger issues b4 us, gay issue is trifle compared to economy

Simon, San Antonio, USA

America - just come to terms with having a black women as your First Lady.

Well done Mrs Obama - You make me feel proud!

Kyra, London, UK

Her comments made earlier in the election about pride in her c country--she had every right to voice such sentiments. Her people were enslaved and subjugated for economic gain by this very nation. Why should she be politically correct for the sake of cowering before white people's opinions?

Asi, Phoenix, USA

I never blog but this is so positive I feel the need to state my feeling that for once, the result the peoples vote has produced a brilliant result, genuine optimism and common sense hopeful, problem solving, can do, fantastic future stuff. It really really is worth holding on to.

Pete, Edinburgh,

To all the ignorant 'socialist' propagandists- WAKE UP!! Doesn't the welfare system already smack of socialism? Didn't Bush (the Arch-Republican) initiate the $700m bailout of the economy? Isn't that already spreading the wealth? You all need to take time to study what socialism really is!

Tim, Ealing,

ES in Delaware-- I bet you didn't complain when bush raised my taxes. I am a single parent who put herself through school, and i can not now, nor could i then, afford to have my taxes increased. Give Obama a chance, you gave Bush one, and the Dems can do no worse than the Repubs are doing.

YG, Texarkana, USA,

to Thom Yok in LA-it's quite possible to be employed by someone else and have no sick days. I worked 13 years as an auxiliary with no benefits whatsoever before getting some sick time. Even Microsof Corp. has a large component of "permatemps" with no benefits.

Vivian, Vancouver, Canada

Least people forget - the current financial meltdown can be traced back to Clinton and the passage of the Community Re-Investment Act. I'm not saying that Clinton and the Dems are 100% responsible, but, they do share in this financial meltdown and that includes our President Elect.

Trish, Tustin,

Marie what are you saying!!

mr g, sheffield, UK

Ignorance is bliss so Bush set us back majorly this is the worst the economy has been since the early 1900s and the only thing some ungrateful people are thinking about is thier self. Give our new black president a chance you gave bush a chance and look what he did time for a change people.

Anita Baker, Phoenix, USA

Well said Mark, +1

Rob, Allen, Texas

Did the daily Telegraph exagerate the width of Michelle Obama in a picture on p 9 today?

David Hartley, Oxford, U.K.

GAC, in Fort Collins, says: "Sour grapes you lot. Go live in Alaska under Palin's rule." Um, I'm pretty sure Sarah Palin doesn't consider herself to be the ruler of Alaska. She's a governor - she governs. Your liberal slip is showing GAC.

JSH, San Antonio, USA

As a professional woman, Michelle articulates well the challenge that working parents face--balancing responsibilities. However, I did not vote for BO, for the sole reason that I am sure he will raise my taxes. I do not share his the "spread the wealth" value system, it penalizes achievement.

ES, Delaware, USA

Doreen, Windsor:
You should really check your gos sources. She was never even at the Waldorf. It was a lie. Michelle Obama came from humble beginnings got top marks in school and graduated from two of the best schools in the USA. She and her husband have earned their success. Applaud it.

Charles, Boston,

Doreen, Windsor, Shame on you!

That story about food at the Waldorf has been debunked, even the NY Post apologized for printing that lie!

Yola, CT, United States

Finally we get somebody in touch with reality. Mrs. Obama KNOWS what working class families are like...she is from one. As is the President Elect. We finally have a first family that understands REALITY.
Our reality ! All of America. Rich and Poor.
We have a unique opportunity.
Bless us.

Rick, san jose, usa

Fish don't fry in the kitchen;
Beans don't burn on the grill.
Took a whole lotta tryin',
Just to get up that hill.
Now we're up in the big leagues,
Gettin' our turn at bat.
As long as we live, it's you and me baby,
There ain't nothin wrong with that.

Michelle, Chicago, USA

as a military wife, it was gratifying to read this. the biggest thing we need is a housing allowance overhaul. where we are now (WA), we live 5 minutes from base. our housing allowance doesn't cover it because it only covers an area 20+ minutes from base, where the bad schools are. it sickens me.

A. Dyson, Kitsap Naval Base - Bangor, USA

" More than 22 million working women don't have paid sick days."

Probably because they are self-employed. I am. No one pays me sick days. 78% of all statistics are made up.

Thom York, Los Angeles,

My hope is that Michelle and Barack will change their views on abortion and become pro-life advocates and speak out against abortions, because the unborn deserve a chance at life too. Then, maybe I can support this new administration, I will pray for them.

Carolyn Higgins, GRAND MARAIS, USA

I just do not know what to think about the Obama's. I'm sorry but I just don't believe they're ready for what is ahead for them. I know this country is not ready for on the job training. I didn't like McCain either. I hold on to the hope that America is strong enough to withstand the next years.

SarahK, Wilmington,

Doreen, the luncheon bill at the Waldorf was found to be a false report a long time ago. Based on your reporting of that, I'd have to say I doubt the rest of your story.

Michelle's the real deal and she's right. We need pay equity, family leave and healthcare. That's real family values.

Jake, Portland, Oregon, USA

Hope Republicans show more respect for Obama & family than Dems showed Bush. It is difficult-payback raises ugly head. Gee, liberal talk show hosts/media will have 0 negatives to rant about once Obama takes off-they wouldn't dare. Shut down conservative talk shows-Dems have win/win w/no effort.

Joan, Worcester, MA, U.S.

To Renita in St. Louis, please let me clear this up: I did not vote for Obama and did not wish to see him win, but in no way am I jealous of him or his wife. I believe in individual initiative whereby each person creates his/her own life with very limited help/interference from the government.

Nell, Silva, USA

I think Michelle is great. I think it's great that she puts her children first - a talented woman making that sacrifice is inspiring and wonderful. She's got so much more character, charisma, and intelligence than 99% of her detractors.

Lucius Schoenbaum, Athens, GA, USA

One way to increase our income so we can feed our families is to reduce taxes. What a concept.

Wendy Olson, Reno,

I think it's a really good plan to help these military families however. Everybody else who has their hand out might first turn to their church or a chairty or family, but these families are sacrificing for our freedoms too. I would prefer my tax dollars go to these people than anything else.

Theresa , Ventura, CA, USA

i love her, i think she is wonderfull. the waldorf story was made up by the new york post. it was retracted. nice to see a republican still spreading the same old lies. the sports events thing is a lie too. mrs. obama happens to be a very frugal person.

rick, Niles, MI, United States of America

It was a nice article with not a great amount of depth, yet, somehow, a few posters have managed to make major determinations about this woman's capacity to be an effective First Lady. Mark my words, Michelle Obama will be brilliant in the role. Better than 99% of us wish we had her intellect.

Jim, Las Vegas,

I would like to remind all Americans that you are all still responsible for your own lives and families. Mind your health and finances. Neither expect nor insist that the government provide you with "free" homes, jobs, or healthcare. The greatest source of security is your own drive and ambition.

Stephen, Woodstock, GA, USA

The most important thing 'leaders' can do is to focus on essentials.

Essentials in this case are: 'bringing my kids up to be as normal as any President's kids can be'.

Essentials are not telling their kids what to be, but to encourage them and support them to be what THEY want to be.

Rhys Jaggar, Leeds, UK

Thank you Michelle I am so happy to have you the First Lady of the United States and my Soror. You are a great role model for women in this country. The naysayers are just JEALOUS of you and your husbands accomplishments. They are just INTIMIDATED because you have achieved more than they could.

Renita, St. Louis, MO, USA

This has to be the most eloquent family ever. I think they are sincere in what they want to do and only time will turn the doubters into believers. I am so proud to have seen this moment and pray to see many more like this.

Dia, Saint Petersburg, United States

For all those complaining about the spelling of certain words in this article, please remember you are reading it on a BRITISH news site, we spell it 'honour', 'centre', 'per cent'. OK?

JoJo, Bucks, UK

don't know why people not giving Obama a chance to succeed before he gets into office should be so out of the norm. The same was done to George W Bush and has been status quo for the last 8 years. Has nothing to do with being a minority.

Mick, Manchester NH, USA

Great article! I am a 60 year old republican father of 8. Family, and eliminating fraud, abuse and waste in government have been my top priorities all my life. I applaud the mom in Michelle Obama and I sincerely hope she becomes a true advocate of military familes.

Mark from Georgia, Grovetown , GA

This is a British site and therefore it is highly likely that the spelling would've been changed to English by an editor. It is petty to nitpick at spelling whilst ignoring the content! Michelle sounds caring, grounded, and supportive here. Very good luck to her - she'll need it with these comments!

Caroline, Aberdeen, UK

It didn't occur to any of those so quick to jump on the poor woman for her spelling that this is a British newspaper and thus the EDITOR may have changed the spelling? It is THEIR LANGUAGE after all.

Karla (American Expat), Epsom, UK

For those who are complaining about "non-American" spelling, , there is a simple reason. This article is in a British newspaper and British website - an update of the original US version.
Therefore the spelling is changed to British usage. Simple. No blame to Mrs O.

Ken W, London, UK

Having sex at 16,getting pregnant and Mom is a public officer?.Not only is this a flaw,disrespectful and stupid,it is wrong.What ever happened to College?.Barak was made to be an educated man and his familt reflects this.The dream to be president was his. Palin came as a quick mistake.

peter, miami,

I'm sure she wrote this but the Times probably changed it to English spelling. If you read the end note, it says it was written before the election and appeared in another publication first.

Marie, London, UK

Oh Please! Any Mother who did not have the original and selfish intention of exploiting her children would have said NO NO NO !!! Dr Phil would have an absolute hay day with this one!

Dee , Lewisburg, USA

can sense a lot of envy in here, people already criticising without giveng she and her husband a chance to suceed, well whats new, its what minorities go through everyday

if anyone thinks they can perform better than the Obama's, simple, seek another job as a politician and contest for elections

marc, stockholm, sweden

For those of you that are sick of hearing about the Obama kids think real hard about Palin. Not only were her kids dragged everywhere during the campaign, they used campaign money to buy those kids clothes and God knows what else. I was so sick of hearing about THOSE kids. Get a life people.

Walter, Orlando, FL, USA

What about the working single dads? I guess we don't count in her world either. ANd what is she talking about his mom being a single mother? His grandparents raised him from fifth grade on. ANd his mother was only there fleetingly.

David, Sioux Falls, USA

You Republicans give me a headache! Malia and Sasha seem ill disciplined and spoiled? What a load of rubbish! And Bristol Palin who is 16 and pregnant is disciplined, what next? Those kids are articulate, well mannered and beautiful. And Michelle is great.

Kim , London,

Please be who you are and a good Mom which I'm already sure you are. Please don't be a "Hilary Rodham." You have no idea how gauche it becomes for the public to be putting up with.

john smith, Valencia, USA

Shara Palin said families with special needs kids would have an advocate it the white house if she got in. Well she didn't. I have 2 teenage girls severely disabled with autism, I'd like to hear Michelle say something about that.

Mark, Scituate , USA

Perhaps Mrs. O could add tolerance to her priority list. Personally, I would appreciate it if she would tell the African-American youth in this country that if they want respect, they should give it to their white classmates. My daughter has had to tolerate some very racist words this week.

Mar, Catonsville, MD, USA

I would bet that all who are complaining about voicing their neg opion of Ms. Obama are the very same people who were voicing their vile and hate for Bush when he was elected in 2000.Its very comical how it is so different now that they are in power.We are supposed to bend over and smile.

Tana, dallas, USA

I thank the incoming leaders of The United States of America for the great work done to bring change to America and the world at large.
I hope that Barack Obama the first African American president will make the promises he said and bring them to reality than just leaving them as a dream.

Collins, Nairobi, Kenya

oh ease up on her. no matter what she says, someone will find fault. my mother used to say: if you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all. i find it heartening that she thinks first of her kids. maybe she can inspire other moms to do so.

Barbara, Valparaiso, USA

Michelle Obama is grounded and it's obvious she loves her children. She can relate to most women in America who "have" to work to make ends meet. I think it's awesome when people talk about their children, that's when we see the other side of people, the real side.

Katie O'Mara, Saginaw, MI, usa

I like how Michelle can focus her eyes on objects. That's pretty cool. I like how she has a terminal degree from the best university in the world. That's pretty cool. Also, I like how she can write using extended metaphors. That's pretty cool. Wish I could say any of that about Laura.

kerplatt, DC,

I believe we should show the Obamas EXACTLY the same level of respect and kindness that the Democrats have shown Bush for the past eight years. I mean, dissent is the highest form of patriotism, right? Thanks so much for teaching us that, Dems! I look forward to being as patriotic as possible.

Paige, Albany, US

Is Michelle related to James Brown? I think she really looks like him. hmmm I guess it could be possible.

Marco, Jacksonville, U.S.A

Any idea why Michelle Obama spelled several words in the "English" way? Honour? Centre? Did she actually write this?

paulmal, jupiter, usa

How sweet. How touching. Too bad she doesn't live in the real world. Too bad Robin-Hood Obama doesn't promote meritocracy and capitalism, real values of America.

Ravi, Chelsea, USA

Michelle Obama thinks she's saying what we want to hear.., i'd be more impressed if she did more for kids and said less like, perhaps, Cindy McCain.

Linda, Lyle, USA

Are we in England, Canada or Australia?
"Honour", "Centre" ?
I know that she isn't proud to be an American, at least until now, but enough is enough!
Be HONORED to ba an American, even though you are left of CENTER.

SLEEF, Russia, USA

The best of the Obamas are still to be seen. The fact that the first lady gives priority to her children and all American children clearly shows that she is a grouded person who values family life. Having a first lady with such qualities should be quite a revelation.

Maurice Mamafha, Johannesburg, South Africa

Shouldn't we all celebrate the fact she is a professional woman that has so gracefully raised a family while literally putting country first by sacrificing their personal privacy in her husband's bid for the highest public office? Sounds like a true American to me. Good luck Michelle!

Dan, Cooperstown,

Let's hope Michelle Obama keeps quiet and stays out of America's business and does the most important thing she can do in this world...raise her children.

Henry, Philadelphia,

If you want to help those military spouses, how about supporting their husbands' heroism and protecting their hard-earned accomplishments? As for the struggling single moms, hope you have some talks about making good, responsible CHOICES and PLANS for education, marriage and commitment.

LA, PHOENIX, USA

I agree with Wendy. The government doesn't have any resources on it's own. Any money that the government "gives" is TAKEN (stolen) from tax payers of all types (including ones doing well to make $600/month, like me). These problems can't be "fixed" by reallocating other peoples' hard-earned money.

Emily, Spartanburg, USA

Michelle..I want to get in line for a hand out. I don't make $250,000, so could you help me make my insurance and maortgage payment this month. I am counting on you an Barack for your support. I see people at the store paying with food stamps while talking on cell phones. Not Fair, I want mine.

Hugh Greer, Memphis, USA

She's not proud of her country and I am not proud of her.

Carol, Atlanta,

Now it's not just cutting taxes for 95% of Americans, it's cutting them for 95% of all WORKING Americans.

Hey, what about those who don't work? They deserve a tax 'cut' too! His O-liness is is prejudiced against the unemployed, everybody!

You can't cut zero. Unless you are the Messiah.

Dave, irving, usa

Sure, there are women who work as much as men but get paid less. These women worked for the Obama campaign!

McCain paid the women on his campaign more than $1 for every mens dollar and Obama paid them less that $1 for every dollar.

Truth hurts.

Bill, Naples, FL, USA

Should have the priorities of HER children first not other's children. First Ladies have gained far too much power over the years. Didn't vote for her (or Obama). Didn't vote for McCain's wife (or McCain) either. Don't ever remember casting a vote for First Lady.

William, Pittsboro, United States

I think this is a really nice article. Good on you Michelle, you sound like a down to earth, intelligent women and a great mom.

Thelma, Ireland,

If she keeps talking about her children...They are fair game.

M Zelenz, New York,

Not that it matters what is said in the comments of a newspaper article--albeit one likely to see thousands of readers--but I'd like to separate myself from the negativity thus far. I only wish there was room to offer my thoughts on why Dr. Obama is* one of the most genuine public figures I've seen.

Dan Lowe, Augusta, MT, USA

This woman hasn't a clue to how people in the real world live. Maybe she should educate herself on that issue above anything else. It would help if she were proud of her country - all the time!

Pat, Vancouver, USA

Michelle Obama will be a wonderful and active role model in the White House. She is brilliant yet modest, perceptive and straightforward.

Julie, Los Angeles, USA

She says that "America remains a country where everyone can fulfill their God-given potential". What about the unborn and those born alive but unwanted?

David, Madison, WI, USA

If the earlier posters (obviously disgruntled right wingers) had read the exact same goals from a republican first lady, they would have been gushing praise for her conservative values. With her working class roots, Michele Obama does understand--far more than Cindy McCain would have.

Debby, Meridian Mississippi, USA

Hey Wendy, family leave works really well in Sweden. Are you implying that Swedes are better and smarter than us and more benevolent? I say the USA can do as well as Sweden and even better! Peace to you!

Ronni Rivers, Dallas,

Oh my goodness people. Regardless if you are a supporter or not, he is your president. Why not go with the flow instead of against it.

Jan, VA, Us

Boy o boy! Give the woman a break! She is speaking from her heart. If you must criticise, do so constructively. Okay, so her kids are her first priority. Is this different for any other mum or would you rather she pretend that she cares more for 'important causes' ......?

Towun, Paris,

I just want to wish Michelle Obama and her family the best during their time in the White House. I voted for McCain but I have no reason not to give her and her husband my respect and service if need be.

Bart, Leawood,Ks, USA

Sour grapes you lot. Go live in Alaska under Palin's rule.

GAC, fort collins, usa

guess she is proud of her country now?

ed, chicago, il

Doreen,

She grew up in a middle class family. She worked her butt off all lf her life to go to the best schools in America. Everything she has she has earned with honest, hard work.

Charles , Atlanta, USA

Michelle is saying all the right things and making all the right promises. We should reserve judgment until "the rubber meets the road." In the meantime, let her enjoy her husband's triumph by offering our moral support.

mcampos, Mesquite TX,

Just regular middle class people. I wonder what church they will be going to

Sam Brown, Pikesville, USA

Who is she kidding? Being the dad of a military familiy I can not wait to see what she does for US!

She wants to help single moms, right? she wants to help 7 out of 10 black women with kids out of wed lock, 3 out of 10 whites with kids out of wed lock,and ensure ensure they stay grounded

joe , rochester, us

If you are concerned for working families such as mine then cut my tax rate so I will have more of my own money yes I said my own money it is not the governments money.

Anna, Beeville, Texas

I could not agree more. As women, it is so important that we develop our minds, have our own lives and careers or anything else we want. But if we choose to become parents, we should put our children first.

I have my own business, do volunteering and am social, but my family come first!

donna s, atlanta,

Show of hands. How many people believe that a socialist is going to CUT taxes? Bill Clinton promised a middle-class tax cut as well. Unfortunately, he just couldn't find the money to do it. Too many entitlement programs to fund--dontcha know.

Welcome to the United States of Sheeple.

DawnJ, Montague, NJ, USA

good luck to them. those poor girls' have no idea what they are in for. it's a tough life to lead.

Samantha, herndon, usa

You all are awfully quick to judge Michelle. First she's anti-American, and now she's too campy? Catch-22, anyone?

How about this: she's neither. She's a strong, independent, brilliant woman, and a wise voice at the President's side. Behind every great man...

Acg, Atlanta, U.S.A.

Thank God we have a high profile parent who understands that good parenting is an important ingredient in producing positively contributing American citizens. We not only need model politicians, but model parents as well. I think that Barack and Michelle are aiming to be both.

Lisa, Akron, USA

I think we're going to be very lucky to have two brilliant minds in the White House. Michelle will be her own First Lady, and will excell.

Do the nay sayers really believe Cindy McCain the super-rich daughter of a beer magnate could relate better to average Americans?

Shane, Austin, TX, USA

I hope this is how she really is... she didn't seem to come off this way during the campaign. This article sounds like a much nicer person than what was heard from her before.
To Laurie Meade, this is Kindra... awesome to see you posting there! Hello to M and J too. :)

Kindra, Md., USA

It's easy to see which way the posters voted in the election. One thing tho, he did not win by a landslide....didn't it turn out 53/47? That folks means 47% of American voters didn't vote for the man. And yes, Mrs. Obama said, "For the first time in my adult life, I'm proud of my country."

Victoria, San Diego, USA

What about struggling families who have "non-working" mothers, who are home dedicating their lives not to work and family, but only family? "As First Lady, I will continue these conversations with working women..." Will Ms. Obama care at all for non-working moms, carring for their children?

greeves, boerne, texas

These two people have the ability to change the face this world as we know it. There are so many bitter people including the ones 'naysaying' on this article. Give them a chance to do what they were elected, by a landslide nonetheless, to do: heal this country and the international ties we need.

Jake, Seattle , U.S.

Sooner or later, the Obamas will inadvertently show their true color: socialist. If you peel off her carefully chosen words in this short article, you will see her real point. She wants businesses to provide longer paid days off so that some poor working moms can stay at home with their kids.

Allen, Atlanta, USA

why is she telling all this to the brits (no offense) ?? she seems to have nothing to say to americans. i assume she will be leaving her 300k a year job to "be mom" now ?
this woman is a phony. it's going to be a long four years.

el polacko, oakland, ca, usa

Barack and Michelle Obama are NOT what America needs. He's not strong enough on Foreign Policy. We must not show weakness to Iran, Iraq or any of the others. If he wants to spread the wealth..why didn't he spread the HIS wealth with his family that was living on the streets and in subsized housing

Renee Brinson, Forth Worth,

I think we will see a radical first 'lady' within a few months. She will have more involvement than Hilary ever did. Too bad, nobdy elected her.. America will survive, we always do.

Mack Goodman, belair, usa

I voted for Obama but his kids seem very spoiled and like they have very little dicipline. From the public appearance they did during their July 4 th interview to now, I was absolutely stunned at how absolutely spoiled these children are and how they have no ability to understand common etiquette.

Ang, Birmingham,

Michelle Obama is precisely the first lady america needs. She is refreshingly passionate about the people in her life she loves, and unlike Laura Bush (who I actually am fond of in a way) doesn't seem like she needs heavy sedatives to survive life with her amazing husband.

laura, Providence, RI, U.S.A.

I hope she plans to enroll the kids in the Washington, DC public school system. Theyhave the highest funding of any school system in the country and we are always told that all the schools need is money and they will produce brilliant kids. I am sure the DC system is one of the best .

joe, Farmington, USSA

People are so desperate to tear people down. I don't care much about them. But why wouldn't she care about her own children? Shes a mother. And she may have money now but wasn't always that way. Stop reading/watching news or you will just be more miserable than you already are.

Corey, Los Angeles,

WOW,what a lot of negative comment!Is it so terrible that Mrs Obama has kids,that she has spoken widely to other working women of all races around the country and fully knows their struggle?that she's a woman of strength,intelligence and accomplishment?Please,stop your petulant,sour grapes whining!

Zen, Kalgoorlie, Australia

Who will pay? Look to Canada for the answer for increased family time off and maternity leaves... They offer up to a year off and the recipient goes on unemployment for the time off. Sure, their salary is cut by half most times, but some employers choose to top up. Win-win!

Halo, Phoenix, USA

i'm so glad they won. now i won't have to be told how racist america is.

len, washington dc,

Michelle Obama is the first "real" First Lady that I have ever seen in my lifetime, and the fact that she has her own career, and puts her family first while being basically a public servant is amazing. Do you research on family leave - the US is way behind the rest of the developed world!

Anne, Atlanta, Georgia, US

I think that's great she's so intent on keeping her kids grounded. You people who wrote the comments above are pretty petty. Show some of John McCain's grace... "she's probably not proud of her country." I'm certain she's more proud of it than you are...

John L Smith, wasilla, usa

I did not vote for Barack Obama, but he IS our president and deserves respect. I pray for his safety and wisdom to lead our nation. There is no doubt that he is a leader, and we need leaders. Why criticize our First Lady? God be with you President Obama and First Lady Michelle.

Mary Ann, Clifton, Texas,

Too many of you Drudge posters are having a "pity party", and your negativity doesn't help bring this country together. This mother is simply expressing her priorities which she has a right to express. Her children are important to her; hopefully, it'll serve as model for other parents.

Connie, Bristol, USA

Wow, what a wonderful, grounded woman. I'll be proud to call her first lady.

Catz, Cary, NC, USA

It's refreshing to hear a First Lady (in waiting) talk about pay equity and family leave. Other countries have made far greater strides toward full gender equality than the U.S. and they have smaller economies. And Vanyali, I'd rather hear about her kids than Bush's affronts to our Constitution.

Melissa, Newbury, MA, USA

My wife is a Marine. I attend law school. We in the military live charmed lives. Do not patronize me. You have no idea how we live. We ask for nothing but a leader who doesn't accuse us of killing innocents. Take care of your own family, I'll take care of mine. You want to help? Enlist.

Dan, Yuma, AZ, USA

Wow, why the insulting comments? I think it's great that Michelle wants to support the working families of the country. Come on people, give her a chance!!

Carol, Loveland, USA

Jay Fredd,

How cynical of you. What makes you think she isn't proud of her country? You have no evidence. I suppose if she's still putting on a mask now that her husband's won, she'll continue wearing it until his term ends. So relax.

Charles , Atlanta, USA

Her top priority is working women. That's insane and ridiculous. Why not have a cause that supports ALL women. Why segregate working women. Believe me, I quite my job as a working woman to take on a bigger and more difficult role- stay at home mom- the backbone of our country.

Nikki, Gainesville, VA,

I agree with Vanyali-who cares about her daughters? If she really wanted them to have a "normal" childhood, she would have sheltered them from the campaign, as the Bush campaign did in 2000. Instead, she chose to use her daughters as props to further her and Barack's career-what a great mom!!

Julie, Midland,

How arrogant! She wrote this article "shortly before the election," saying "Now that Barack has been elected president." We live in a representaive democracy. Choosing a president is called an election, Mrs. Obama, people vote and decide; the polls don't decide. YOU don't decide.

d. f. kriller, Chevy Chase, USA

What does "establishing equity pay for women" even mean?How will it work?who will determine if they are underpaid?Who will pay?Are they going to create an agency to overlook women's salaries?Many women earn less because they have had to take time off to raise families= less time in the workforce!

joe berg, bloomington, united states

It's sad to see some of these posters so bitter and jaded.

Is it possible that they really believe that this woman growing up on the south side of Chicago doesn't know what's it like to struggle as a working class family?

So sad.

jim, portland,

I dont know about the UK but I defy the First Lady Elect or anyone else to point specifically to one single job in the entire United States where women are arbitrarily paid less than men............name one...... Its against the law. Another liberal myth.

greg collins, dewey, United States

"With Barack serving as President, we will fill our home with talk of how to serve our nation's families better."

Thank You Michelle for being one who actually cares about the families of America. It sadens me to read such vile comments for our first lady and family.

" Enough "

Benjamin A. Thomas, Santa Clarita, CA, United States

Michelle Obama sounds like a peach. Who exactly is going to pay for extending family leave from 12-52 weeks? Oh yeah, the evil companies the poor struggling women work for. Extending family leave will place an undue burden on companies and they will stop hiring women. Won't that be helpful?

Wendy, Corpus Christi, TX, USA

I'm not a supporter and I find this article rather lame. I believe she's not letting her real self show and putting on the same old mask as first lady without any realness. She's probably not proud of her country.

Jay Fredd, Madison, USA

I am already sick of hearing about her children. Why do people think everyone else wants to hear about their kids?

Vanyali, Bethesda, MD, USA

I believe all First Ladies have as a priority concern the well being of children, as do their parents.

Let's just hope this new President is color blind.

Jennifer, Santa Fe, USA/Colorado

A nice lot of rhetoric. What does this woman understand about working middle class families?? She told a group of working class mothers in Ohio that she spent $10,000 on her children's sports events. Add that to her exorbitant recent luncheon bill at the Waldorf. She is not what we need.

Doreen, Windsor,

It is going to be so cool to have a First Lady who has the priorities of the children at the top of her priority list. Not just in causes she may support but by also being a role model in her actions as a mom.
Barack and his family will be a role model for my interacially mixed children.

Laurie Meade, Tacoma, Wa, usa