Republicans are pushing back against President Biden’s decision to recognize billionaire George Soros and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton with the nation’s highest civilian honor.
Key Facts:
• Biden presented 19 medals in total, including those to Soros and Clinton.
• Other recipients included Anna Wintour, Denzel Washington, chef José Andrés, scientist Bill Nye, Lionel Messi, and Magic Johnson.
• GOP lawmakers faulted Biden for honoring two longtime Democratic figures.
• Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) said Biden’s choice signaled favor to prominent donors.
• Soros’s political donations remain a point of contention for conservatives.
The Rest of The Story:
On Saturday, President Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 individuals who have shaped culture, politics, sports, and science.
Two of the honorees stood out to Republican legislators: George Soros, a billionaire philanthropist known for supporting Democratic causes, and Hillary Clinton, a former senator and secretary of State who led the State Department during President Obama’s administration.
While Biden applauded the group’s diverse achievements—calling them “cultural icons” and “humanitarians”—some Republicans expressed frustration, calling Soros a major donor whose financial support has consistently aided Democratic campaigns.
Sen. Rick Scott labeled the award “outrageous” and accused the president of rewarding wealthy backers.
GOP members also challenged Clinton’s selection, citing her past presidential run against Trump and her role at the State Department.
Critics contended that Biden used the ceremony to honor a leading figure from his own political circle.
Despite the uproar, Clinton reportedly received a standing ovation at the event.
Clinton’s and Soros’s supporters argue that both have greatly influenced political discourse and public service.
Clinton served for years on the national stage, and Soros has used his wealth to fund social and political initiatives.
Joe Biden is giving the Medal of Freedom to Hillary Clinton and George Soros, desecrating the meaning of this honor.
I remember when President Trump in 2020 awarded Rush Limbaugh the Medal of Freedom. THIS was a true meaningful use of this award. THIS was deserved. pic.twitter.com/Y7O4OHIcYq
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) January 4, 2025
The Bottom Line:
Biden’s final awards drew a sharp response from Republicans, who view Soros and Clinton as partisan symbols.
Some believe these honors blur the lines between achievement and political favoritism.
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Regardless of the dispute, the medals have been granted, and Soros and Clinton are officially among the year’s recipients.