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We learned about honesty and integrity – that the truth matters... that you don’t take shortcuts or play by your own set of rules... and success doesn’t count unless you earn it fair and square.

Michelle Obama

2008 Democratic National Convention speech · Checked on 10 June 2026
We learned about honesty and integrity – that the truth matters... that you don’t take shortcuts or play by your own set of rules... and success doesn’t count unless you earn it fair and square.

Analysis

The quoted remarks align with the transcript of Michelle Obama's speech at the 2008 DNC, where she emphasized values like honesty, integrity, and fair play. The statement reflects her discussion of the principles she and Barack Obama were raised with. No evidence suggests the quote is fabricated or taken out of context.

Background

Michelle Obama delivered this speech on August 25, 2008, at the Democratic National Convention in Denver, Colorado. The speech introduced her and her family to a national audience, highlighting their values and her husband's presidential campaign themes.

Verdict summary

Michelle Obama did make this statement during her 2008 Democratic National Convention speech.

Sources consulted

— C-SPAN. (2008). Michelle Obama 2008 DNC Speech. https://www.c-span.org/video/?312996-1/michelle-obama-2008-dnc-speech
— The New York Times. (2008). Full Text of Michelle Obama’s Speech. https://www.nytimes.com/2008/08/26/us/politics/26text-obama.html
— Democratic National Convention. (2008). Official Transcript: Michelle Obama’s Address. https://www.demconvention.com/speech-michelle-obama/