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White House Reporter Asks if Michelle Obama Knows Robert Gibbs is Joining McDonald's

Influence of 'Let's Move' called into question

June 9, 2015

Tuesday morning, Former Press Secretary Robert Gibbs revealed he will be joining McDonald’s to head communications and serve as the fast-food company’s spokesperson.

The move will raise eyebrows for many who recall Gibbs’ advocacy for the First Lady’s healthy eating initiatives.

"Has anybody told the First Lady about Robert Gibbs going to McDonald’s?" AFP’s Andrew Beatty asked Josh Earnest at the White House press briefing.

Earnest said he was unsure if she was informed and congratulated McDonald’s on hiring Gibbs, echoing a statement made by David Axelrod.

McDonald’s said Gibbs will help them "in communicating clear, coordinated messages to internal and external constituencies, enhancing the brand and supporting corporate strategies."

Not to worry for the First Lady, as McDonald’s announced it will use Gibbs to to "build a more progressive burger company."

Appearing on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Obama chided Olympic gymnastics gold medalist Gabby Douglas for telling Leno she splurged with a McDonald's Egg McMuffin.

"Yeah, Gabby, don't encourage that! But I'm sure it was on a whole wheat muffin," Obama said. "You're setting me back, Gabby."

To make matters worse for Obama, it is not just White House staff rebelling against her well intentioned but highly unpopular advocacy. The president himself seemed to take advantage of time away from his wife and her imposing health consciousness.

The Internet buzzed about a picture of President Obama standing outside with Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi, apparently about to pick a cigarette out of a pack in his hand. Obama, enjoying the beautiful views of Bavaria while attending the G7 summit, had previously sworn off cigarettes.

Obama was overheard at a UN meeting in 2013 admitting he quit smoking, "because I’m scared of my wife."

It appears that Obama is less scared of his better half when he is halfway around the world from her.

Mrs. Obama said that Obama quit for good years ago.

The First Lady’s tireless efforts to keep the White House in tip-top shape looks to be struggling as the Obama administration exhibits "senioritis" during its lame-duck years.