President Biden plans to award the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, to Hillary Clinton, Democratic megadonor George Soros, and 17 others during a White House ceremony on Saturday. The announcement has sparked significant attention, with conservatives criticizing the inclusion of figures like Soros and Clinton.
The White House praised the recipients as “individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavors.” In a statement, they claimed, “President Biden believes great leaders keep the faith, give everyone a fair shot, and put decency above all else.”
Soros, 94, has been a prominent figure in Democratic fundraising, contributing over $175 million during the 2022 midterms and another $60 million in 2024 through his Democracy PAC, according to FEC records. The billionaire’s Open Society Foundations have funded progressive projects worldwide, including efforts to elect far-left district attorneys like Manhattan’s Alvin Bragg and Philadelphia’s Larry Krasner, who have faced criticism for prioritizing criminal justice reform over prosecuting violent criminals.
Soros has also been accused of supporting groups that promote anti-Israel sentiments on college campuses. Despite these controversies, the White House described him as “a philanthropist” who has worked to “strengthen democracy, human rights, education, and social justice.”
Clinton, 77, is being recognized nearly 12 years after her husband, former President Bill Clinton, received the same award from President Obama. The White House highlighted her long career in public service, stating that she “made history many times” and became the first woman nominated for president by a major political party in 2016.
However, Clinton’s legacy is clouded by her use of a private email server during her time as Secretary of State, which led to an FBI investigation. While no charges were filed, former FBI Director James Comey described her actions as “extremely careless” in handling classified information.
A Broader Cultural Focus
In addition to Clinton and Soros, Biden will award medals to Hollywood actors, athletes, and other cultural icons, underscoring the administration’s focus on celebrating figures from across American society.
Critics argue that the decision to honor figures like Soros and Clinton reflects a partisan agenda, rewarding those who have advanced progressive causes while ignoring the controversies surrounding their careers.
