President Biden awards the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 individuals, sparking controversy among conservatives.
At a Glance
- President Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 individuals on January 4, 2025
- Recipients included Hillary Clinton, George Soros, and Denzel Washington
- The Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honor in the U.S.
- Posthumous awards were given to Robert F. Kennedy and others
- The ceremony has drawn criticism from conservative circles
Biden’s Final Medal of Freedom Ceremony
On January 4, 2025, President Joe Biden presided over his last Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony at the White House. The event, which honored 19 individuals from various fields, has ignited debate among conservative circles due to the controversial nature of some recipients.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom, established by President John F. Kennedy in 1963, is the highest civilian honor in the United States. It recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the country’s prosperity, values, security, world peace, or other significant societal endeavors.
It’s like he specifically picked the worst people on the planet and chose to award them for causing as much political chaos as they possibly could.
Among the recipients were several figures who have long been subjects of conservative criticism. Hillary Clinton, former Secretary of State and Democratic presidential nominee, was honored for her decades of public service. George Soros, the billionaire philanthropist often targeted by right-wing conspiracy theories, received the medal for his global democratic and charitable efforts.
“These nineteen Americans are great leaders who have made America a better place. They are great leaders because they are good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world,” the White House said.
Yeah, OK.
Other recipients included actor Denzel Washington, known for his influential roles and philanthropic work, and sports icons like Magic Johnson and Lionel Messi, recognized for their impact both on and off the field.
The ceremony also featured posthumous awards to several prominent figures. Robert F. Kennedy, former U.S. Attorney General and Senator, was honored, with President Biden noting, “Bobby is one of my true political heroes. I love and I miss him dearly.”
Given the way Biden treated his son, he’s probably turning in his grave.
Other posthumous recipients included Ashton Carter, Fannie Lou Hamer, and George W. Romney.
“For the final time as president I have the honor bestowing the Medal of Freedom, our nation’s highest civilian honor, on a group of extraordinary, truly extraordinary people, who gave their sacred effort, their sacred effort, to shape the culture and the cause of America,” President Biden said in his opening remarks.
