Biden to give second highest civilian award to leaders of January 6 congressional panel

Thu Jan 02 06:15:06 UTC 2025: ## Biden Awards Presidential Citizens Medals to January 6 Committee Leaders, Others

**Washington, D.C. – January 2, 2025** – President Joe Biden will bestow the Presidential Citizens Medal, the nation’s second-highest civilian honor, upon 20 individuals, including Representatives Liz Cheney and Bennie Thompson, who chaired the House select committee investigating the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot. The White House announced the ceremony, scheduled for Thursday, January 2nd, 2024.

Cheney and Thompson’s recognition comes amidst ongoing political tensions. Former President Donald Trump, who won the 2024 election, has repeatedly condemned the committee and called for Cheney and Thompson’s imprisonment. Trump, who plans to pardon those involved in the Capitol riot upon taking office, maintains his false claims about the 2020 election. Cheney, who publicly supported Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 election, has become a prominent target of Trump’s criticism.

The Presidential Citizens Medal will also be awarded to a diverse group of Americans, including those who fought for marriage equality, veterans, civil rights advocates, and leaders in women’s rights and breast cancer advocacy. Four individuals will receive the award posthumously.

The White House stated that the honorees embody “common decency and commitment to serving others,” highlighting their contributions to the nation. The Presidential Citizens Medal, established in 1969, recognizes exemplary service to the country or fellow citizens.