As his term draws to a close, former Democratic President Joe Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, to 19 individuals “who gave their sacred effort, their sacred effort, to shape the culture and the cause of America”. Among the recipients were Liz Cheney, Hillary Clinton, Anna Wintour, and Jane Goodall.
Liz Cheney: A Republican in Service of Democracy
Joe Biden presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom to former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, known for her staunch opposition to Donald Trump. The event was met with applause as Liz Cheney and Bennie Thompson, chair of the committee investigating the Capitol assault, took the stage to receive their honors.
Biden praised the two figures, stating that their commitment reflected the honor and integrity necessary to safeguard democracy in challenging times. The White House emphasized that Liz Cheney had “transcended partisan divides to defend the ideals of our nation.”
The daughter of former Vice President Dick Cheney, Liz Cheney has become a divisive figure within the Republican Party due to her key role in investigating the events of January 6, 2021. She also campaigned alongside Kamala Harris after her defeat in the November elections, drawing the ire of Donald Trump and his supporters.
“Liz Cheney has raised her voice — and reached across the aisle — to defend our nation and the ideals we stand for: Freedom. Dignity. And decency,” the White House said in a statement.
In the tense political climate, Trump, set to take office on January 20, warned that Liz Cheney might face trouble with the justice system under his administration.
Hillary Clinton: A Celebrated Pioneer
Hillary Clinton, the 2016 Democratic presidential candidate and the first woman nominated by a major party, was also honored and applauded for having made history on numerous occasions.
The medal is “presented to 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,” the White House said in a news release ahead of the ceremony.
Jane Goodall: A Voice for the Planet
Renowned British primatologist Jane Goodall, globally recognized for her work with chimpanzees and her advocacy for conservation, was another recipient. Joe Biden commended her unwavering commitment to protecting the environment and endangered species.
Now in her eighties, Jane Goodall continues to inspire scientists, environmentalists, and animal rights advocates around the world.
A Subtle Rebuff to Trump?
Biden’s decision to honor Liz Cheney, Hillary Clinton, and Jane Goodall comes as part of a series of actions marking the end of his presidency, amid a politically fraught transition to Donald Trump’s administration.
The Democratic president also recognized other notable figures, including Anna Wintour, the iconic editor of Vogue, celebrated for her influence in the fashion industry, and actor and Parkinson’s advocate Michael J. Fox.
Donald Trump swiftly reacted to the awards, taking to his Truth Social platform to label Liz Cheney “totally corrupt”, claiming that Biden rewarded her only because she hated ‘TRUMP’”.