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Malia Obama’s July 4th Sweet 16

Malia, far right, turns 16 the same day as America's birthday. (Douglas Graham/CQ Roll Call File Photo)
Malia, far right, turns 16 the same day as America's birthday. (Douglas Graham/CQ Roll Call File Photo)

For the Obama family, Friday’s Fourth of July celebrations will also mark another milestone — Malia Obama’s sweet 16 birthday.  

President Barack Obama made note Tuesday during a speech in Washington of Malia’s upcoming Independence Day birthday, with the president showing some apprehension as Malia begins to inch toward adulthood.  

“With the Fourth of July on Friday — also Malia’s birthday for those of you who are interested — she will be 16,” the president said before beginning his remarks on the Highway Trust Fund. “A little worrisome.”  

Turning 16 means Malia may soon be behind the wheel, as she will be at the minimum age eligible to obtain a driver’s permit in the District. Michelle Obama confirmed to Jimmy Fallon in February that Malia will indeed be on the road this summer, warning Washingtonians to “watch out.”  

The Obamas have in the past marked Malia’s birthday in an array of locations, including on the campaign trail in 2012 and at Camp David in 2009.  

Also in 2009, the president addressed military families on July Fourth in Washington as Malia turned 11 years old.  

“When she was younger, I used to say that all these fireworks were for her,” the president said. “I’m not sure she still buys that.”

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