President Barack Obama has opted to attend South by Southwest over the funeral for former first lady Nancy Reagan, reports The Washington Post.
As previously reported, President Obama is scheduled to give a keynote speech during SXSW Interactive on Friday, March 11th, the same day Reagan will be laid to rest in Simi Valley, California.
First lady Michelle Obama will attend the funeral on her husband’s behalf, as will Democratic presidential candidate and former secretary of state Hillary Clinton.
The first lady is also scheduled to appear at SXSW, as she’ll give a keynote speech during the festival’s music portion on March 16th. Their appearance marks the first time a sitting president and first lady have ever attend the Austin-based music, film, and interactive conference.
