The Biden administration has once again found itself at the center of controversy, this time over the Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony. During a recent episode of Pod Save America, even former Obama aides couldn’t help but laugh and criticize President Joe Biden for a glaring omission—failing to reciprocate the honor once bestowed upon him by Barack Obama.
In 2017, Obama awarded Biden the Presidential Medal of Freedom, calling him “a lion of American history” and praising his lifelong commitment to public service. Fast forward to Biden’s presidency, and the absence of Obama from the honoree list has raised eyebrows, even among staunch Democrats.
Obama Allies Call Out Biden
Jon Favreau, a former Obama speechwriter and co-host of Pod Save America, didn’t mince words. “Obama gave one to Biden, and Biden did not return the favor,” he said, chuckling during the podcast. Fellow co-host Jon Lovett added, “I guess they’re not really on speaking terms, I suppose, after all that’s happened!” The playful jabs hint at deeper tensions between Biden and his former boss.
Reports suggest Obama’s team discouraged Biden from running in 2016, urging him to step aside for Hillary Clinton. That tension now seems to manifest in Biden’s decisions, with Clinton and billionaire George Soros—polarizing figures often criticized by conservatives—among this year’s honorees.
Backlash Over Honorees
Biden’s choices for the Presidential Medal of Freedom have sparked criticism, particularly from conservatives. Representative Eli Crane (R-Ariz.) voiced the sentiments of many on social media:
“Joe Biden gave the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Hillary Clinton and George Soros instead of Daniel Penny. Says all you need to know. Counting down to January 20th.”
The inclusion of Clinton and Soros, icons of the Democratic establishment and globalist ideologies, fueled allegations of partisan pandering. Many questioned why Biden prioritized political allies over individuals who represent broader American values and achievements.
Snubbed Heroes and Controversial Priorities
Among the 19 recipients this year were Hollywood favorites like actor Michael J. Fox, celebrity chef José Andrés, and science educator Bill Nye. While their contributions are notable, the absence of everyday heroes—veterans, first responders, and other patriotic figures—was conspicuous.
Conservatives particularly noted the exclusion of individuals like Daniel Penny, celebrated by many for his bravery in critical moments. The decision to overlook such figures left critics questioning the credibility of the once-prestigious award.
Obama’s Absence
Biden’s apparent snub of Obama was another glaring misstep. The man who once called Biden “the best vice president America’s ever had” and honored him with heartfelt words in 2017 was nowhere on Biden’s list of honorees. Even liberal commentators on Pod Save America struggled to rationalize the omission.
“That’s interesting,” Lovett remarked, while Favreau summed up the moment with a wry, “Yeah, well.”
Undermining the Award’s Legacy
Critics argue that Biden’s choices reflect a broader trend under his administration: prioritizing political allies over genuine merit. Honoring Clinton and Soros, figures synonymous with left-wing ideologies, only deepened partisan divides and undermined the Medal of Freedom’s legacy.
Even Biden’s Democratic allies seemed unable to defend his decisions. If liberal commentators and former Obama aides are openly questioning his judgment, what does that signal to the American public?
Conclusion
The Presidential Medal of Freedom, once a symbol of unparalleled achievement and service, has become a flashpoint of political controversy under Biden’s leadership. With his choices drawing laughter from allies and criticism from opponents, Biden faces mounting pressure to prioritize unity and merit over partisanship.
As the 2024 election cycle heats up, moments like these only amplify doubts about Biden’s leadership and decision-making—casting a shadow over his administration and legacy