Michelle Obama calls out 'birtherism' at campaign stop for Clinton

US First Lady Michelle Obama took sharp aim on Friday at those who questioned her husband's eligibility for office, arguing a potential commander in chief should set a better example for the country's children.

"There were those who questioned and continue to question for the past eight years up through this very day whether my husband was even born in this country," Michelle was quoted by CNN in Fairfax, Virginia, during her first solo campaign appearance for Hillary Clinton.

"Well, during his time in office, I think Barack has answered those questions with the example he set by going high when they go low."

The first lady was speaking hours after Donald Trump -- who for five years has etched a reputation as the highest-profile "birther", questioning if the President was born in the US -- admitted that Obama was born in America.

With virtually unmatched popularity at her back, Michelle Obama sought to cast the race as a make-or-break moment for the country's future.

"If a candidate is erratic and threatening; if a candidate traffics in prejudice, fears and lies on the trail; if a candidate has no clear plans to implement their goals; if they disrespect their fellow citizens, including folks who made extraordinary sacrifices for our country; let me tell you, that is who they are. That is the kind of president they will be, trust me," Michelle said.

The first lady was debuting on the stump on Friday in the hopes of galvanizing suburban voters behind a candidate she once fiercely opposed.

On Friday, Obama struck upon similar themes as her well-received speech at this summer's Democratic National Convention. Speaking on the event's first night, Obama's 10-minute address made an impassioned argument for keeping Trump away from the Oval Office.

--IANS

ahm/