Biden Awards Medal Of Freedom To Clinton, Soros, 19 Others
India-West News Desk
WASHINGTON, DC – On January 4, President Joe Biden presented the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 extraordinary individuals, including former Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton and billionaire philanthropist George Soros. This distinguished honor is the highest award a civilian can receive, recognizing those who have made significant contributions in various fields such as public service, activism, sports, and the arts.
In his opening remarks, President Biden praised the recipients as “extraordinary,” highlighting their impact on American society and the world. Among those honored was Hillary Clinton, who received a standing ovation from her peers. As the military officer read through her impressive accomplishments, Biden placed the medal around her neck. Clinton’s extensive career includes defending children’s rights as a lawyer, advocating for universal healthcare as First Lady, championing women’s rights, and leading New York’s recovery after the 9/11 attacks. As Secretary of State, she worked tirelessly to advance democracy globally and broke barriers with her presidential nomination.
President Biden also noted that many of Clinton’s healthcare reform ideas were adopted by President Barack Obama, helping shape the Affordable Care Act. While the legislation is a cornerstone of Obama’s presidency, it remains a subject of debate, with healthcare costs continuing to be a major concern for American families.
Another prominent recipient, George Soros, was honored through his son, Alex Soros, who accepted the medal on behalf of his father. The military officer lauded Soros for his efforts to build a life of freedom for himself and others around the world. Soros is widely known for his philanthropic work through the Open Society Foundation, which has funded numerous initiatives, including efforts to elect progressive district attorneys and judges. Soros’s political action committees have spent hundreds of millions of dollars supporting candidates across the United States.
In addition to Clinton and Soros, several other notable figures were awarded the Medal of Freedom. Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney accepted the medal posthumously on behalf of his father, George W. Romney, a former governor of Michigan.
Biden also honored three individuals posthumously: Ash Carter, former Secretary of Defense under President George W. Bush; Fannie Lou Hamer, a revered civil rights activist; and Robert F. Kennedy, the late U.S. Attorney General and a personal political hero of President Biden. Biden spoke warmly of Kennedy, expressing his admiration and affection for him.
Other distinguished recipients included sports legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson, renowned musician and philanthropist Bono, actors Denzel Washington and Michael J. Fox, and soccer superstar Lionel Messi.
