Michelle Obama critiqued for dour holiday Instagram video

From her best-selling books to widely attended speaking engagements, former first lady Michelle Obama is someone who rarely seems to put a foot wrong in the eyes of the public.

However, Mrs. Obama posted a New Year's message on Instagram this past Friday which immediately drew a host of critical commentary for what many described as its gloomy and unduly ominous tone, as the Daily Mail reports.

Michelle's musings go viral

Mrs. Obama's video greeting took the form of a roughly 90-second post on social media in which she offered holiday wishes to her legions of fans and followers.

Though the former first lady began with an exuberant expression of “Happy holidays!” things started to take a distinctly different turn from there.

“I know it's been a difficult few months for so many of us – and folks are feeling a little bit anxious and uncertain,” Obama continued in what was seemingly a reference to the Democrats' resounding defeat in the November elections.

She continued, “But even during these tough times, there are plenty of reasons to stay hopeful.”

From there, Mrs. Obama regaled viewers with tales of her work with the Obama Foundation, which she says is designed to “lift up the young change-makers around the world,” and she also highlighted ongoing construction at the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago.

Reactions pour in

While large portion of Mrs. Obama's fan base were assuredly pleased to hear her words of encouragement ahead of the new year, others responded in a far less favorable way, as Fox News notes.

One online user took issue with Mrs. Obama's description of the past few months, suggesting that an air of optimism had overtaken the land.

“Michelle, America is excited about what's to come: a new horizon and prosperity for the nation. 2025-2029! No anxiety here,” the commentor explained.

Another seemed to take aim at Mrs. Obama's fall campaign efforts in support of Kamala Harris, remarking, “A difficult few years from the damage the Biden administration has caused! Things have never looked better since Trump won the election! The people have the power! Not even all those celebrities could change that!”

Yet another weighed in with a rather more biting response, saying, “Twenty-four more days and we are out of this nightmare you and your husband created for the American people!” and while that comment may have hit a bit too close to home, it is one that, unfortunately for Mrs. Obama, countless of her fellow citizens likely share.