With just 16 days remaining in office, United States President Joe Biden on Saturday awarded 18 individuals with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, one of the nation’s highest civilian honour. Among those who received the honour was George Soros, the billionaire philanthropist and major Democratic donor often vilified by Republican critics.

The ceremony, held in the White House’s East Room, celebrated a blend of political, cultural, and philanthropic leaders emblematic of the establishment Biden has championed throughout his tenure.

"The Presidential Medal of Freedom is awarded to George Soros. Born into a Jewish family in Hungary, George Soros escaped Nazi occupation to build a life of freedom for himself and countless others around the world. Educated in England, he settled in America as he became an investor and philanthropist supporting key pillars of open societies, rights and justice, equity and equality, freedom now and in the future," the citation read by a military aide stated.

In a statement, George Soros, founder of the Open Society Foundations, expressed his gratitude for the recognition: "As an immigrant who found freedom and prosperity in America, I am deeply moved by this honour. I accept it on behalf of the many people around the world with whom the Open Society Foundations have made common cause over the past 40 years."

Backlash from Republican leaders

The decision to honour Soros sparked backlash from Republican leaders and MAGA supporters, who have long criticized his political influence and philanthropy. GOP leader Nikki Haley denounced the award, calling it "a slap in the face of America" and accusing President Biden of pandering to liberal elites in his final days in office.

"Giving George Soros the Presidential Medal of Freedom is another slap in the face of America after reducing the sentences of murderers and pardoning his son," Haley said. "Sixteen days is a long time until the inauguration. What is he capable of sliding in next? January 20th can't come soon enough."

Montana Senator Tim Sheehy also criticized the honour, telling The New York Post: "George Soros spent millions electing soft-on-crime politicians that let criminals wreak havoc in our major cities."

Alex Soros defends father's legacy

Alex Soros, who accepted the award on his father's behalf, defended his father’s contributions to American society and global democracy. "My father is an American patriot who has spent his life fighting for freedom and human rights," he said. "I am incredibly proud that his legacy is now recognized with our nation's highest civilian honour."

He further echoed President Biden's sentiments about the medal’s significance: "This award isn't just about the work he's done; it is a call to action for all of us to fight for democracy on behalf of anyone yearning to be free."

The awards ceremony served as a symbolic gesture from Biden, emphasizing a commitment to democratic values and a rebuke to Trump's populist rhetoric.

"Let's remember, our sacred effort continues," Biden said to the gathered audience. "To keep going, as my mother would say, we have to keep the faith."

Awardees represent the "old guard"

Those awarded include prominent figures who have shaped political and cultural landscapes, some of whom have clashed with Trump or stood as symbols of resistance to his administration.

Among them was Hillary Clinton, former first lady, senator, and secretary of state, who received a standing ovation during the event. Clinton was a frequent target of Trump, who famously vowed to imprison her during his 2016 campaign.

Also honoured posthumously were Robert F Kennedy and George Romney Kennedy, the assassinated senator and liberal icon, was represented by his daughter Kerry Kennedy, while Romney's award was accepted by his son, former Senator Mitt Romney, a vocal critic of Trump.

Celebrating arts and advocacy

The ceremony also highlighted artists, cultural figures, and philanthropists. U2 frontman Bono, actor Michael J Fox, basketball legend Magic Johnson, and investor David M Rubenstein were among the awardees.

Anna Wintour, the influential editor-in-chief of Vogue and a leading Democratic fundraiser, also received the award. Wintour has been a prominent supporter of the Bidens, featuring First Lady Jill Biden on Vogue's cover twice, while omitting Melania Trump during the Trump presidency.

One absence was notable: soccer superstar Lionel Messi, who was selected to receive the honor but did not attend or send a representative due to a scheduling conflict, the White House said.

Agencies