President Joe Biden's decision to award the Presidential Citizens Medal to former Rep. Liz Cheney and Rep. Bennie Thompson for their roles in the January 6 investigation has sparked controversy.
The Daily Mail reported that the attacks in New Orleans and Las Vegas overshadowed the day he named the honorees, leading to outrage as many saw Biden's actions as disrespectful and not appropriate.
On New Year's Day, a terrorist incident occurred when a truck plowed through crowds in New Orleans, resulting in 15 deaths. That same day, a Tesla Cybertruck exploded near the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas, killing one and injuring seven more.
Yet, within 48 hours of these attacks, Biden turned public attention to honoring those involved in the January 6 Capitol riot investigation. The Presidential Citizens Medal, the second highest civilian honor in the U.S., was awarded to members of the committee, including prominent figures like Cheney and Thompson.
President Biden's choice to recognize 20 individuals surpasses focusing solely on the Capitol riot investigation. This year's honorees include advocates for marriage equality, civil rights, and other social causes, expanding the ambit of the awards.
Among the honored are Biden's long-time allies Ted Kaufman and Chris Dodd, reflecting a breadth of contributions in public service. The White House emphasized that the honorees embody "common decency" and a steadfast "commitment to serving others," suggesting their contributions have greatly benefitted the nation.
Last year, awards went to those defending the Capitol during the 2021 riot, setting a precedent for this year's choices. Among the honorees, Liz Cheney stands out due to her transformation from a Trump ally to a stalwart critic following her vote to impeach him.
President Biden praised Cheney for her integrity, highlighting her bipartisan efforts and her commitment to American ideals. "Throughout two decades in public service," Biden remarked, she "has raised her voice—and reached across the aisle—to defend our Nation."
Despite Biden's commendation, criticism was swift from various political corners. Senator John Barrasso expressed his disdain, highlighting Cheney's divisive reputation and questioning her suitability for the award. Instead, he viewed her actions as emblematic of partisanship rather than unity.
According to sources close to President-elect Trump, accusations against committee members like Cheney and Thompson included the alleged destruction of testimonies, claims Trump made without providing supporting evidence.
Donald Trump condemned the committee's work, describing its members as "political thugs" and suggesting they should face legal consequences. His dissatisfaction with the committee's findings and their members stands in stark contrast to Biden's recognition of their efforts.
The investigation panel comprised both Republican and Democratic members, with Cheney and Adam Kinzinger being the only Republican voices. However, the committee faced criticism for its composition and process, with accusations of being a "show trial" devoid of fair scrutiny.
Amidst this backdrop, Jason Miller, a Trump ally, criticized Biden's timing, questioning his prioritization in light of global and national concerns.
Biden's move to award these medals, taken alongside considerations of preemptive pardons for committee members, reflects the complex political landscape. As Biden navigates his final years in office, he is confronted with both legacy building and diplomatic challenges.
With President-elect Trump's declared intent to pardon January 6 prisoners, Biden's actions hint at both support for those investigating the uprising and caution over impending political shifts. The awards send a clear message, one that is met with varied interpretations amid the country's polarized environment.
