What's happened
President Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 recipients at a White House ceremony, including Al Gore, Michael Bloomberg, and Michelle Yeoh. The medal is America's highest civilian honor, presented to individuals who have made significant contributions to the country's prosperity, values, or security.
Why it matters
President Biden's recognition of these individuals with the Presidential Medal of Freedom highlights their exceptional achievements and contributions to various fields. The award signifies their impact on American society, values, and prosperity, showcasing their leadership and service.
What the papers say
The White House emphasized the recipients' leadership and service, stating they demonstrated the power of community and hard work. The New York Times highlighted the prominent Democratic figures honored by President Biden, including Nancy Pelosi and John F. Kerry. The South China Morning Post focused on the diverse backgrounds of the recipients, such as Michelle Yeoh and Katie Ledecky.
How we got here
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is a prestigious award presented by the President of the United States to individuals who have made meritorious contributions to national security, world peace, or significant public or private endeavors. President Biden's selection of 19 recipients, including political allies and figures from civil rights, sports, and entertainment, reflects a diverse group of honorees.
Common question
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Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. is an American politician who is the 46th and current president of the United States. A member of the Democratic Party, he served as the 47th vice president from 2009 to 2017 and represented Delaware in the United States Senate
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Albert Arnold Gore Jr. is an American politician and environmentalist who served as the 45th vice president of the United States from 1993 to 2001.
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Nancy Patricia Pelosi is an American Democratic Party politician serving as Speaker of the United States House of Representatives since January 2019.
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James Enos Clyburn is an American politician of the Democratic Party serving as House Majority Whip since 2019. He is a two-time Majority Whip, having previously served in the post from 2007 to 2011 and served as House Assistant Minority Leader from 2011
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The Presidential Medal of Freedom is an award bestowed by the president of the United States to recognize people who have made "an especially meritorious contribution to the security or national interests of the United States, world peace, cultural or oth