Politics

The Obama family officially leaves Washington D.C.

President Barack Obama kisses first lady Michelle Obama as they wait for President-elect Donald Trump and his wife Melania Trump at the White House, Friday, Jan. 20, 2017, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)
President Barack Obama kisses first lady Michelle Obama as they wait for President-elect Donald Trump and his wife Melania Trump at the White House, Friday, Jan. 20, 2017, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)
Jan 20, 2017

Former President Barack Obama and his family have officially departed Washington, resuming their lives as private citizens.

The Obamas departed the U.S. Capitol via helicopter shortly after the conclusion of Donald Trump's inaugural ceremonies, a tradition that stretches back to President Gerald Ford.

Obama is expected to first make remarks to staff at Joint Base Andrews in suburban Maryland before hopping on a government flight to Palm Springs, Calif., a favorite vacation spot of the family’s, for some time off.

The family will ultimately return to Washington, taking up residence in the ritzy Kalorama neighborhood less than two miles Northwest of the White House. The Obamas said they plan to stay there while their younger daughter Sasha finishes high school nearby.

About the Author

Tamar Hallerman is an award-winning senior reporter for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. She covers the Fulton County election interference case and co-hosts the Breakdown podcast.

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