How Sasha Obama Went Against Her Parents' Wishes After Leaving The White House

At 7 years of age, Sasha Obama was only a couple of years into elementary school when Barack Obama was elected President in 2008. Her sister, Malia Obama, was 10. By the time President Obama left the White House in 2017, Sasha was 15 (Malia 18). Malia and Sasha Obama have readjusted to regular old life (by their standards at least). While Malia has already graduated from Harvard and kickstarted her TV-writing career. Sasha is still in college, obtaining her undergrad degree at the University of Southern California. 

Of course, The Obama sisters transformed into young adults and enjoyed life to the fullest, which has sometimes generated backlash. As reported by Bustle, former President George Bush's daughters — Barbara and Jenna — wrote a letter urging Sasha and Malia to enjoy being young adults, despite the hyper-focus on their choices. "Enjoy college. As most of the world knows, we did," they wrote, drawing from their own experiences (via Time). "Those who judge you don't love you, and their voices shouldn't hold weight." Fortunately, Sasha and Malia have never been involved in any huge scandals that would bring legitimate shame to themselves or their family.

With that said, Sasha (like all youngest siblings) did once do something that her very powerful parents once barred her from doing. 

Barack Obama and Michelle Obama have shared countless hilarious stories about their two children over the years. Back in 2013, the former president shared his and Michelle's course of action if their daughters ever decided to get tattoos. "What we've said to the girls is, 'If you guys ever decide you're going to get a tattoo, then mommy and me will get the exact same tattoo, in the same place, and we'll go on YouTube and show it off as a family tattoo,'" Obama shared on "Today" (via Reuters). "Our thinking is that might dissuade them from thinking that somehow that's a good way to rebel."

Well, it appears as if their threats weren't threatening enough because Sasha Obama has totally embraced a bit of permanent ink. Back in October, the Daily Mail released photos of Sasha's seemingly new tattoo of a hot air balloon, which was located on the back of her left arm. The mid-sized tattoo sits right above her left elbow, features a thick black outline and no discernable coloring. It also seems devoid of any captions — sentimental or otherwise. Basically, it's about the tamest tattoo imaginable and the best choice option for a former first daughter.

Fortunately, it doesn't appear as if Sasha Obama's parents are up in arms about her tattoo. In December, Michelle Obama appeared on "The Kelly Clarkson Show" and revealed that she's definitely come around about the topic. "Most kids who are wearing tattoos and piercings, they've got long nails ... their value system is about individuality," said the former First Lady. " The "American Grown" author continued, "My generation, tattoos meant something totally different." Ahh, to have an open-minded parent!

Sasha is likely the only Obama child who's sat in a tattoo chair, as Malia doesn't have any visible tattoos. Of course, Malia may one day change her mind. Barack and Michelle are also tattoo-free, though the former president almost received tattoos in another form. Back in 2016, then-President Obama made fun of NBA star J.R. Smith, while visiting the White House, for his habit of not wearing shirts. "J.R. Smith's shirt has shown up," said Obama (via Bleacher Report). "I wasn't sure it was going to make an appearance today. I'm glad you came. You're a very nice shirt." Later, Smith came super close to gifting POTUS with a shirt made up of his tattoos, per ESPN, though he didn't go through with it. 

Probably for the best! 

Sasha Obama is all grown up now since she left the White House at 15 years old. The almost 22-year-old is now living with her older sister, Malia Obama, in Los Angeles while attending the University of Southern California. Since Sasha got her tattoo, it seems President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama have loosened up on their rules and are treating their daughters like adults. Michelle Obama shared a story on Today about how her daughters invited her and the former President over to their apartment for drinks. "And we were like, 'Okay, let's see what this is going to be like.' The martinis were a little weak. I don't think they really knew what it was," she laughed.

In April 2022, Michelle paid a visit to "The Ellen Show" and reflected on her daughters growing up. "Being with them as adults, is ... it's fun! I mean I love them at every age." The former First Lady recalled Sasha and Malia loving the Jonas Brothers when they were kids and shared, "Now they're bringing grown men home ... Now they have boyfriends and real lives." Sasha will be graduating from USC this year, and we can't wait to see what new adventures lie ahead for her.