Strange Facts About Michelle Obama

Nicknames can be bestowed onto people for a variety of different reasons. Former First Lady Michelle Obama got hers — "The Closer" — because of the way she could convince a crowd to vote for two-term President Barack Obama after he gave his own remarks. According to ABC News, the Obama Campaign team was responsible for her nickname. Democratic strategist Stephanie Cutter told NPR in 2020, "She was the real motivator for people to come out and caucus in Iowa for Barack Obama, and that's a key role that she plays in elections. She knows how to inspire and motivate and relate with the people she's speaking with."

Michelle used her "Closer" abilities before the 2016 election to try to encourage voters yet again. Although she isn't a fan of politics, she spoke at an event in Fairfax, Virginia, motivating voters to think hard about who they wanted in the White House in the election between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton.

"So if a candidate is erratic and threatening," Michelle said, "if a candidate traffics in prejudice, fears, and lies on the trail, ... if they disrespect their fellow citizens — including folks who've made extraordinary sacrifices for our country — let me tell you: That is who they are. That is the kind of president they will be" (via The Guardian).