Sun Jan 05 03:20:31 UTC 2025: ## Biden Awards Presidential Medal of Freedom to Hillary Clinton, George Soros, and Others

**Washington, D.C. –** Outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden bestowed the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, upon 17 individuals on Saturday, January 4th, 2025. The recipients included former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, controversial philanthropist George Soros, Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, scientist Bill Nye, and actor Denzel Washington. Argentinian football star Lionel Messi was unable to attend due to scheduling conflicts.

The ceremony, held in the East Room of the White House, saw Biden praise the recipients for their contributions to American culture and society. He highlighted their work in various fields, including humanitarian efforts, arts, and advocacy for democratic values. Several recipients received the award posthumously, including Fannie Lou Hamer, Ashton Carter, Robert F. Kennedy, and George W. Romney.

Hillary Clinton’s recognition was met with a standing ovation, with the citation praising her career dedicated to defending American ideals. George Soros’s award, however, sparked immediate controversy. His son, Alex Soros, accepted the award on his behalf.

Republican leaders and MAGA supporters criticized the decision, with GOP leader Nikki Haley calling it a “slap in the face of America.” Senator Tim Sheehy echoed these sentiments, citing Soros’s philanthropy as supporting “soft-on-crime” politicians. Alex Soros defended his father’s legacy, emphasizing his lifelong commitment to freedom and human rights. The award, he stated, served as a call to action for continued efforts to uphold democracy.

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