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Social media has been buzzing with criticism following the announcement that President Biden plans to award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and billionaire philanthropist George Soros.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honor in the U.S., recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to society, public service, or global peace, as noted in a White House statement.
Elon Musk, the entrepreneur behind Tesla, was particularly vocal, calling the decision to honor Soros “a travesty.” In a clip shared from a Joe Rogan podcast, Musk expressed his negative view of Soros, suggesting that he undermines societal structures by supporting candidates who do not prosecute crime effectively.
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On the upcoming Saturday, President Biden will present the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Clinton, Soros, and 17 other individuals during a ceremony at the White House.
Commentators on social media expressed their disbelief at the news, with one user, Blake Habyan, dismissing the decision as a farce, while another, Natalie F. Danelishen, likened it to a satirical story due to its absurdity. “Seriously, two of the worst people on earth,” she remarked in her response.
The White House highlighted Clinton’s historical significance, pointing to her role as the first female senator from New York and the first First Lady to hold elected office. After her tenure as Secretary of State, she made history again as the first woman nominated for president by a major political party in the U.S. However, her tenure was marred by controversy, particularly regarding the 2012 Benghazi attack, which claimed the lives of four Americans, and her use of a private email server for official communications. While an FBI investigation found evidence of mishandling classified information, no legal action was pursued against her.
Elon Musk, the Tesla founder, reiterated his criticisms during the uproar over the award. (Samuel Corum/Getty Images)
Interestingly, Clinton’s husband, former President Bill Clinton, received the same distinction from Barack Obama in 2013.
Soros, a prominent Democratic donor, is known for his network of non-profits that support various progressive causes through his Open Society Foundations. Since 1984, he has donated over $32 billion to initiatives that promote democracy, human rights, and education worldwide, according to the organization’s website. However, he has faced backlash, particularly from conservative commentators, who argue that his funding of progressive district attorneys has contributed to rising crime in urban areas.
Among the other notable figures receiving the award is actor Denzel Washington. The ceremony is also significant as it follows Biden’s recent awarding of the Presidential Citizens Medal to former Representative Liz Cheney and Representative Bennie Thompson for their roles in the Jan. 6 House Select Committee, marking the second-highest civilian honor in the U.S.
Clinton and Soros are among a diverse group of 19 honorees from various fields, including politics, fashion, sports, entertainment, and social activism. Other recipients include posthumously honored Robert Francis Kennedy, actors Denzel Washington and Michael J. Fox, musician Bono, former basketball star Earvin “Magic” Johnson, and soccer icon Lionel Messi.
The White House commented, “President Biden believes great leaders keep the faith, give everyone a fair shot, and put decency above all else. These nineteen Americans are great leaders who have made America a better place. They are recognized for their extraordinary contributions to the nation and the world.”
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Robert Francis Kennedy, the late former Attorney General and U.S. Senator, is acknowledged for his historic fight against racial segregation and his efforts to combat poverty and inequality.
The list of award recipients also includes José Andrés, a prominent chef and activist; Bono, a musician focused on social issues; Ashton Baldwin Carter (posthumous), former Secretary of Defense; Michael J. Fox, an advocate for Parkinson’s research; Dr. Jane Goodall, an esteemed conservationist; and others who have made significant contributions to their fields.
Among the other awardees are Lionel Messi, known for his success in soccer and philanthropy; Bill Nye, a science educator; and David M. Rubenstein, a philanthropist dedicated to cultural preservation.
This ceremony comes at a time of heightened scrutiny around the actions and influence of both Clinton and Soros, reflecting ongoing divisions in U.S. society regarding their legacies.
Denzel Washington is recognized not only for his acting accolades but also for his longstanding community involvement through organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
In conclusion, the decision to bestow these honors has ignited a debate that underscores the complexities and differing perspectives surrounding the figures involved and their contributions to American society.
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