Chicago Trib: Michelle Obama blazes a new trail

[mucifer]

Stacy St. Clair | Tribune reporter
9:14 PM CST, November 8, 2008

When Michelle Obama walks into the White House on Monday for the traditional post-election tea between the first lady and her successor, she'll be taking the first steps along what many historians believe could be a groundbreaking path.

As she enters the White House, the country will get its first inkling of how Obama will fill a ceremonial role undefined by the Constitution yet still considered one of the most influential in the land. As first lady, moves she makes will be dissected by a public intent on judging everything from the issues she champions to the dresses she wears.

It can be an overwhelming experience for political wives, and some have stumbled famously. But historians and associates say Michelle Obama's self-discipline, intelligence and commitment to family may spare her from repeating others' mistakes and, in turn, help redefine the first lady's role in the 21st Century.

"There's really no other first lady that you can compare her to in terms of her background," said Bonnie Angelo, author of "First Families." "More than anything else, she will blaze her own trail."

Predictions of her revolutionary role reflect Michelle Obama's own story. An Ivy League-educated lawyer and a descendant of slaves, Michelle Obama has a background unlike any other first lady. In addition to being the first black presidential spouse, Michelle Obama will rank among the youngest, the most educated and the most accomplished.

She also brings with her the two youngest first daughters in decades.
more at: http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/chi-michelle_obama_first_ladynov09,0,7595775.story

[fasttense]

1. Michelle Obama will have her hands full taking care of her daughters.

She's bringing her Mom and that will help her a lot.

[H2O Man]

2. Michelle Obama

will be a great role model for American youth.

[Berry Cool]

3. I'm sure she'll do a great job. But I also look forward to some future day

when we will have a woman president--one with children as young as Michelle's--who will take on the job of running the country with the help of a husband who takes on the chief role as caregiver for the kids and manager of the household.