*Michelle Obama has decided not to attend Donald Trump’s inauguration next week because she does not want to feign support for someone she views as a threat to American democracy.
“There’s no overstating her feelings about [Trump]. She’s not one to plaster on a pleasant face and pretend for protocol’s sake,” one insider told PEOPLE. “Michelle doesn’t do anything because it’s expected or it’s protocol or it’s tradition.”
According to one source, Trump’s history of attacking the Obama family and making derogatory remarks about people of color as factors influencing her decision.
“She served in the public eye and did all the public good that she could for eight years as first lady,” the source said. “You’ll see her when she has a project or cause to promote but she doesn’t feel the need to be a public figure anymore.”
Meanwhile, we reported earlier that Trump’s inaugural committee raised $170 million to fund events such as a parade, the swearing-in ceremony, a “victory rally” at Capital One Arena, and a national prayer service on Tuesday at Washington National Cathedral.
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Hotel bookings and protest permit applications are significantly lower leading up to the inauguration, compared to his first in 2017.
While his initial swearing-in saw large protests, far fewer permit requests have been submitted this time, Raw Story reports, citing the Washington Post. The “People’s March” is the largest protest planned for Jan. 20, and expects an estimated turnout of 50,000 participants, according to the permit application.
Rachel Reisner, director of communications for the Trump inaugural committee, said, “The Inaugural events will draw supporters, industry leaders, and diplomats of all backgrounds to Washington DC to join the president in ushering in America’s new golden era.”
READ MORE FROM EURWEB.COM: It’s a NO for Michelle Obama – She’s Skipping Trump’s Inauguration – But Barack, Bill, Hillary and George Are Going! | WATCH
