Billionaire George Soros Among 18 Honorees to Receive the US Medal: A Landmark Achievement

U.S. President Joe Biden, who has just 16 days left in office, presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom, one of the country's highest civilian honors, to 18 people on Saturday. One of the honorees was George Soros, a well-known Democratic fundraiser and billionaire philanthropist who is frequently chastised by Republican rivals. Held in the White House's East Room, the event honored a variety of humanitarian, cultural, and political luminaries that represent the values Biden has championed during his presidency.

Bono, Messi, Soros awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom by Biden

George Soros receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom. George Soros, who emigrated to create a life of freedom for himself and innumerable others around the world, was born into a Jewish family in Hungary and survived the Nazi occupation. The citation, read aloud by a military aide, stated, "He was educated in England, eventually settled in the United States, and became an investor and philanthropist, supporting the foundations of freedom for the present and future, rights and justice, equality and equity, and open societies."

In a statement, Open Society Foundation founder George Soros thanked the organization for the honor, saying, "As an immigrant who found freedom and prosperity in America, I am deeply moved by this recognition." I accept it on behalf of the numerous people throughout the world that the Open Society Foundation has collaborated with to achieve common objectives during the previous four decades.

Republican leaders' response.

Republican leaders and MAGA members, who have long questioned Soros' political power and charity, have sharply attacked the plan to recognize him. Calling the award "a slap in the face to America," GOP leader Nikki Haley denounced it and charged that President Biden had catered to the leftist elite in the last days of his administration. Haley said, "Giving George Soros the Presidential Medal is yet another slap in the face to America, as sentences for murderers are reduced and his son is pardoned." "It's way too long to have sixteen days before the inauguration," she continued. Is there anything else he can do? January 20th is far too soon.

The honor was also condemned by Senator Tim Sheehy of Montana, who told *The New York Post*: "George Soros has spent millions electing soft-on-crime politicians who have allowed criminals to wreak havoc in our major cities."

Alex Soros defended the legacy of his father.

In accepting the prize on his father's behalf, Alex Soros praised his father's contributions to both international democracy and American society. He stated, "My father is an American patriot who has dedicated his life to fighting for freedom and human rights."

"I am incredibly proud that his legacy is now being recognized with our nation's highest civilian honor." Regarding the medal's significance, he reiterated President Biden's remarks: "This award is not just about the work he has done; it is a call to action for all of us to fight for democracy on behalf of anyone who desires to be free."

Billionaire George Soros Among 18 Honorees to Receive the US Medal: A Landmark Achievement

Biden used the award ceremony as a symbolic act to counter Trump's populist rhetoric and reassert his dedication to democratic principles. Speaking to the assembled crowd, Biden stated, "Let us remember, our sacred effort continues." "To keep moving forward, we must keep the faith," he continued, paraphrasing his mother.

representing the "Old Guardians," who have won awards.

Prominent individuals who have influenced the political and cultural scene are among the award recipients. Some of them have been in conflict with Trump or have represented opposition to his government. During the ceremony, former First Lady, Senator, and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was given a standing ovation. Trump had threatened to put Clinton in jail during his 2016 campaign, and he frequently targeted her.

George Romney and Robert F. Kennedy also received posthumous honors. Romney's honor was accepted by his son, former Senator Mitt Romney, a strong opponent of Trump, while Kerry Kennedy, his daughter, represented the late Senator and liberal hero Kennedy.

Respecting Art and Advocacy.

Artists, cultural leaders, and benefactors were also present. Actor Michael J. Fox, basketball great Magic Johnson, financier David M. Rubenstein, and U2 frontman Bono were among the recipients. The prize was also given to Anna Wintour, the well-known Democratic fundraiser and editor-in-chief of *Vogue*. With the exception of Melania Trump during Trump's presidency, Wintour has been a steadfast supporter of Biden and twice has placed First Lady Jill Biden on the cover of *Vogue*. One prominent omission was football player Lionel Messi, who the White House said was chosen to receive the honor but was unable to attend or send a delegate because of scheduling issues.