Washington, Jan 5 : President Joe Biden’s decision to award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to billionaire philanthropist George Soros has sparked backlash from right-wing leaders, including Tesla CEO Elon Musk, MAGA Republicans, and conservative commentators.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom, America’s highest civilian honor, was conferred on Soros for his contributions to democracy, human rights, education, and social justice through the Open Society Foundations. Soros, 94, accepted the award via a statement, expressing gratitude and dedicating it to those who share his vision of global freedom and justice. His son Alexander received the medal on his behalf at the White House.
Elon Musk Leads Outrage
Elon Musk criticized the decision, calling it “a travesty” in a tweet. Musk also shared a meme likening Soros to the Star Wars character Darth Sidious, implying sinister motives behind his philanthropic efforts. On a podcast, Musk claimed Soros “fundamentally hates humanity.”
Other prominent Republican figures joined Musk in condemning the award. GOP leader Nikki Haley described it as “a slap in the face of America,” referencing Soros’s alleged support for progressive district attorneys accused of being lenient on crime. Haley also hinted at her anticipation for President-elect Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration, suggesting Biden’s final days in office could bring further contentious decisions.
Donald Trump Jr. echoed the criticism, contrasting Soros with everyday heroes, such as a pizza delivery driver who saved children from a burning house. He stated, “This guy deserves the Presidential Medal of Freedom… Not clowns like Soros.”
Montana Senator Tim Sheehy added to the critique, accusing Soros of funding policies that have led to increased crime in major US cities.
Soros’s Legacy and Political Divides
George Soros, a prominent Democratic Party donor, has long been a polarizing figure. Conservative critics blame his funding of progressive initiatives for exacerbating crime and division, while his supporters laud his efforts to promote open societies and human rights globally.
Soros’s past remarks have also fueled controversy. He has criticized nationalist movements, including India’s leadership under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which drew sharp responses from the ruling BJP. In the US, his political donations and support for left-wing causes have made him a frequent target of right-wing politicians and media.
Broader Backlash Over Biden’s Picks
The criticism wasn’t limited to Soros. Biden’s inclusion of former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and other liberal figures like Vogue editor Anna Wintour in the list of honorees also drew ire. Online commentators accused the White House of using the Medal of Freedom to reward ideological allies, with one user calling the selection “a joke.”
Other notable recipients of the medal included soccer legend Lionel Messi, actors Denzel Washington and Michael J. Fox, and posthumous honoree Fannie Lou Hamer, a Black civil rights activist. While Biden’s picks aimed to celebrate diverse contributions to society, the recognition of George Soros remains the focal point of the controversy.
Divided Reactions Reflect Partisan Divide
The uproar over Soros’s award highlights the deep political divisions in the United States, with conservatives viewing the honor as emblematic of Biden’s left-leaning policies and liberals defending Soros’s legacy of philanthropy.
As the nation inches closer to the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump, the debate over Soros’s Medal of Freedom underscores the ongoing ideological battle shaping America’s political landscape.
