I would say that Barack Obama has always been a real optimist about what can be accomplished. He believes that government can be used to create systemic, long-term, real change. And the first lady is more of a skeptic. — Jodi Kantor Copy Share Image
I will say this: One thing I did see in my reporting again and again is that the Obamas themselves are much more involved… — Jodi Kantor Copy Share Image
I spent a lot of time in the White House in the public areas where reporters are allowed to go, but I spoke to… — Jodi Kantor Copy Share Image
Those close to Mr. Obama say he grows irritated at being misunderstood - not just by opponents who insinuate that he caters to African-Americans,… — Jodi Kantor Copy Share Image
I really thought I wanted to be a lawyer, but then I had an epiphany when I was in law school and dropped out.… — Jodi Kantor Copy Share Image
Michelle has had to grapple with Hilary Clinton's legacy as First Lady... Michelle Obama never wants to be seen as the kind of First… — Jodi Kantor Copy Share Image
People who face too many demands - two careers, two children - often scale back somehow. The Obamas scaled up. — Jodi Kantor Copy Share Image
Every presidential candidate highlights patriotism, but Mr. Romney's is backed by the Mormon belief that the United States was chosen by God to play… — Jodi Kantor Copy Share Image
Michelle Obama has mostly stuck to pretty anodyne topics. She's anti-childhood obesity, she's pro-veteran. — Jodi Kantor Copy Share Image
I've learned that the best political reporters never make predictions! — Jodi Kantor Copy Share Image
Candidates' wives are supposed to sit cheerfully through their husbands' appearances. — Jodi Kantor Copy Share Image
One of my favorite stories is from Obama's first campaign: Michelle Obama was out there every day, collecting signatures and supervising the other people… — Jodi Kantor Copy Share Image
