The 7 Times President Obama Was Visibly Moved to Tears During His Time in Office

During his eight years as President of the United States, Barack Obama was known for his calm demeanor, thoughtful leadership, and powerful oratory.

But on a few rare occasions, he also showed a deeply emotional side—reminding Americans that even their commander-in-chief feels the weight of the nation’s most poignant moments. Here are seven instances when President Obama was visibly moved to tears:

Sandy Hook School Shooting (2012) 

Following the tragic shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, where 20 young children and 6 educators were killed, President Obama struggled to hold back tears during a nationally televised address.

“We’ve endured too many of these tragedies,” he said, visibly emotional. “We are going to have to come together and take meaningful action to prevent more tragedies like this.”

Farewell Address in Chicago (2017)

During his farewell speech, Obama’s voice cracked and tears welled in his eyes as he paid tribute to his wife and daughters.

“Michelle, for the past 25 years, you have not only been my wife and the mother of my children, you have been my best friend,” he said. “Sasha and Malia… you have become two amazing young women. Of all that I’ve done in my life, I’m most proud to be your dad.”

Death of His Grandmother (2008)

Just one day before the 2008 election, Obama’s beloved grandmother, Madelyn Dunham, passed away after battling cancer.

Speaking to supporters, he said, “She has gone home,” dedicating the historic moment to her influence and sacrifices.

Funeral of Senator Daniel Inouye (2012)

At the memorial service for Hawaii Senator Daniel Inouye, a World War II hero and one of the highest-ranking Asian Americans in U.S. political history, Obama spoke with visible emotion.

He credited Inouye as a childhood hero and political inspiration: “He showed me what might be possible in America.”

Gun Control Announcement (2016)

While announcing a set of executive actions aimed at curbing gun violence, Obama once again broke down when recalling the Sandy Hook victims.

“Every time I think about those kids, it gets me mad,” he said, wiping away tears. He later referred to the inability to pass stronger gun reform as one of the greatest frustrations of his presidency.

Aretha Franklin’s White House Performance (2015)

During a Kennedy Center Honors tribute to singer Carole King, Aretha Franklin delivered a surprise performance of “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman.”

Obama, seated beside the honorees, was visibly emotional. The moment went viral and is still remembered as one of the most heartfelt in White House entertainment history.

The Final Medal of Freedom Ceremony (2017)

In his final weeks as president, Obama awarded Vice President Joe Biden the Presidential Medal of Freedom with Distinction—the highest civilian honor in the U.S. Biden, unaware of the surprise, was overcome with emotion.

As the two embraced, Obama also appeared tearful, calling Biden “the best vice president America has ever had.”