Elon Musk rages against Biden’s decision to honor George Soros with Medal of Freedom: ‘A travesty’

George Soros, investor and philanthropist, was among the 19 individuals conferred with the prestigious US Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Joe Biden on Saturday (January 4). The 2024 list includes individuals from a variety of sectors including politics, sports, philanthropy, and entertainment.

George Soros was recognized for his global philanthropic work through the Open Society Foundations, which has supported initiatives focused on democracy, human rights, education, and social justice in over 120 countries.

In a press statement issued by the White House, George Soros was recognized as "an investor, philanthropist, and founder of the Open Society Foundations." The White House highlighted his global impact, stating, "Through his network of foundations, partners, and projects in more than 120 countries, Soros has focused on global initiatives that strengthen democracy, human rights, education, and social justice."

Controversy over Soros’s award

Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and a prominent figure close to former President Donald Trump, expressed his disapproval on social media over award to Soros. Musk labeled the award a "travesty," posting on X (formerly Twitter), "A travesty that Biden is giving Soros the Medal of Freedom."

Other major recipients

Other high-profile figures receiving the award include former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, football legend Lionel Messi, and celebrated actors Denzel Washington and Michael J. Fox. 

Four individuals were awarded the medal posthumously: George W. Romney, former Michigan governor and Secretary of Housing and Urban Development; former Attorney General and Senator Robert F. Kennedy; Ash Carter, former Secretary of Defense; and Fannie Lou Hamer, founder of the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party and a key figure in the 1965 Voting Rights Act.

Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton received a standing ovation as she was honored with the Medal of Freedom. She was joined by her husband, former President Bill Clinton, daughter Chelsea Clinton, and grandchildren at the ceremony.

In his opening remarks, President Biden expressed, “For the final time as president I have the honor bestowing the Medal of Freedom, our nation’s highest civilian honor, on a group of extraordinary, truly extraordinary people, who gave their sacred effort, their sacred effort, to shape the culture and the cause of America,” Biden said in his opening remarks.

“Let me just say to each of you, thank you, thank you, thank you for all you’ve done to help this country," Biden added.

In a statement, the White House praised the recipients as "great leaders who have made America and the world a better place." Biden remarked, "These nineteen individuals are great leaders because they are good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world."

The Presidential Medal of Freedom

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the United States' highest civilian honor, awarded to individuals who have made extraordinary contributions in areas such as global peace, security, societal well-being, or public and private endeavors. The medal is a symbol of recognition for those whose actions have significantly influenced the prosperity and values of the United States and the world.

Other awardees include William Sanford Nye, known for his work in science education and space exploration, and David Rubenstein, lauded for his philanthropic efforts and support for the restoration of historic landmarks in America.

Continued legacy of service and leadership

President Biden’s statement emphasized that the recipients exemplify the core values of decency, fairness, and commitment to service. "Great leaders keep the faith, give everyone a fair shot, and put decency above all else," Biden said, underscoring that each honoree has worked to advance societal progress through their dedicated efforts in various fields.