US President Joe Biden used a medal ceremony on Friday to commend key Democratic figures while subtly criticizing his predecessor, Donald Trump.
Among those honored were former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and former Vice President Al Gore, both pivotal figures in American politics. Biden praised Pelosi for her stalwart defense of democracy during the Capitol insurrection of January 6, 2021, contrasting her actions with Trump’s refusal to accept defeat.
Similarly, he lauded Gore for his gracious acceptance of a disputed election outcome in 2000, a stark contrast to Trump’s behavior. The ceremony, held at the White House, carried significant political undertones, especially with the looming presidential election in just six months.
During the event, Biden presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 recipients, spanning various fields including culture, activism, and sports. Among the awardees were Oscar-winning actress Michelle Yeoh, Olympic swimmer Katie Ledecky, and posthumously, civil rights leader Medgar Evers, whose tragic murder in 1963 remains a symbol of the struggle for racial equality.
Notable Democrats like former Secretary of State John Kerry and former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg were also honored for their contributions. Biden emphasized Pelosi’s historic role as Speaker of the House and her courageous defense of democracy during the Capitol attack, which he blamed on Trump’s rhetoric.
The ceremony also recognized lesser-known figures like Jim Thorpe, the first Native American Olympic gold medalist, and Jim Clyburn, a Democratic congressman crucial to Biden’s 2020 campaign success. Biden reiterated the significance of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, honoring individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the nation’s prosperity, values, and security.
