In a significant recognition of civic duty, President Biden will present the Presidential Citizens Medal to former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney and Mississippi Rep. Bennie Thompson. Both lawmakers were instrumental in leading the congressional investigation into the January 6, 2021, assault on the U.S. Capitol.
The Presidential Citizens Medal is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exemplary service to their country or fellow citizens, making it the second-highest civilian honor a president can issue. This acknowledgment of Cheney and Thompson underscores the importance of their contributions and challenges to the integrity of the democratic process.
The decision comes amid ongoing criticism from former President Trump, who has accused Cheney and Thompson of unlawful actions connected to their investigation of his role in the events of January 6.
According to a White House statement, “President Biden believes these Americans are bonded by their common decency and commitment to serving others. The country is better because of their dedication and sacrifice.”
Additionally, President Biden is set to honor several civil rights leaders and advocates whose work aligns with his long-standing priorities. Among the recipients are Biden’s personal friends, former Senators Ted Kaufman and Chris Dodd, as well as Bill Bradley, a former senator, NBA star, and presidential candidate.
In total, President Biden will confer the Citizens Medal to 20 individuals, following last year’s awards to 14 people for their brave efforts during the January 6 insurrection and the safeguarding of the 2020 election process.
Cheney played a pivotal role as one of only two Republicans on the panel that scrutinized the events of January 6. The committee’s findings led to recommendations for prosecuting Trump on multiple charges, including obstruction of an official proceeding and conspiracy-related offenses.
Trump, who is set to take office again on January 20, has indicated intentions to pardon individuals convicted in connection with the January 6 incident and has persistently downplayed the committee’s conclusions while targeting Cheney through social media.
