Joe Biden Awards Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 Recipients in Final Ceremony

The honorees include figures from politics, humanitarianism, science, and entertainment, with some selections sparking partisan criticism.

President Joe Biden presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor, to 19 individuals during a ceremony at the White House on January 4, 2025.
The recipients included Hillary Clinton, George Soros, José Andrés, Ralph Lauren, and posthumously, Robert F. Kennedy and Fannie Lou Hamer, among others.
The awards recognized contributions in areas such as civil rights, philanthropy, science, humanitarian aid, and cultural impact, with Lionel Messi honored as a UNICEF ambassador despite being unable to attend.
Criticism emerged from some Republican figures over the inclusion of George Soros and Hillary Clinton, citing their political affiliations and past controversies.
This marks Biden's final Medal of Freedom ceremony, following a tradition of honoring individuals who have significantly influenced American society and global progress.