Has Biden lost his mind?
This Saturday, President Joe Biden will honor 19 prominent figures with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian award. Among the recipients are former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, billionaire philanthropist George Soros, and Hollywood actor-turned-director Denzel Washington. The ceremony will take place at the White House, where these individuals will be recognized for their contributions to American society and global peace.
The list of awardees spans a wide range of sectors, including politics, sports, entertainment, civil rights, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and science. The White House has stated that these recipients were chosen for their “exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States” and for their dedication to making a meaningful impact on society.
Among the honorees, four will be receiving the Medal of Freedom posthumously. These include civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer, former Attorney General and Senator Robert F. Kennedy, former Michigan Governor and HUD Secretary George W. Romney, and former Secretary of Defense Ash Carter. Notably, Robert F. Kennedy’s son, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has been tapped by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as Secretary of Health and Human Services, while George W. Romney’s son, Mitt Romney, is a Republican Senator from Utah known for his vocal criticism of Trump.
In addition to Clinton and Soros, other notable figures receiving the award include chef José Andrés, who is recognized for his humanitarian efforts through World Central Kitchen, and U2 frontman Bono, renowned for his activism in social justice. Sports and entertainment figures such as soccer star Lionel Messi, basketball legend Magic Johnson, and actor Michael J. Fox, an advocate for Parkinson’s disease research, will also be honored.
The list of awardees further includes conservationist Jane Goodall, fashion icon Anna Wintour, designer Ralph Lauren, and entrepreneur Tim Gill, a staunch advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. These individuals, across their diverse fields, have all left a significant mark on American culture and society.
This year’s awards continue the Biden administration’s tradition of honoring individuals whose lives and careers have reflected values that align with progressive ideals—values that many Republicans might view with skepticism. Yet, it is important to recognize the influence these individuals have had on shaping America’s public life. Whether one agrees or disagrees with their politics or activism, their impact is undeniable.