Biden Honors Cheney and Thompson Despite Sparking Heated Controversy

President Biden awards prestigious medal to Liz Cheney and Bennie Thompson, sparking controversy and criticism from fellow Republicans.

At a Glance

Biden awards Presidential Citizens Medal to Liz Cheney and Rep. Bennie Thompson for their roles in the January 6 Committee.
The award is the second-highest civilian honor in the U.S., recognizing exemplary service to the country.
The decision faces backlash from Republicans, including Sen. Ted Cruz, who accuses Cheney of witness tampering.
Critics view the award as a political move against former President Donald Trump.
The ceremony highlights deep partisan divides surrounding the January 6 events and their aftermath.

Biden Honors January 6 Committee Leaders

President Joe Biden has awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal to former Wyoming Representative Liz Cheney and Mississippi Representative Bennie Thompson, along with 18 other individuals, in a White House ceremony. The medal, established by President Richard Nixon in 1969, is the nation’s second-highest civilian honor, recognizing those who have “performed exemplary deeds of service for their country or their fellow citizens.”

Cheney and Thompson were honored for their roles in leading the House Select Committee investigating the January 6 Capitol riot. The committee’s final report accused former President Donald Trump of orchestrating a conspiracy in regard to the 2020 election results. Other recipients include advocates for same-sex marriage, wounded soldier treatment, and women’s rights, as well as close friends of Biden, former Senators Ted Kaufman and Chris Dodd.

Partisan Reactions and Criticisms

The decision to honor Cheney and Thompson has ignited a fierce partisan debate. Critics, predominantly from the Republican party, view the award as a political maneuver targeting former President Trump. Senator Ted Cruz of Texas voiced his disapproval, accusing Cheney of misconduct.

“This is truly unbelievable. Liz Cheney tampered with a witness. Outside of DC, that doesn’t get you a medal; it gets you jail time.” – Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX)

Cruz’s statement reflects a broader sentiment among conservatives who question the legitimacy of the January 6 Committee’s actions and findings. The House Administration Subcommittee has referred Cheney’s case to the FBI, further intensifying the controversy surrounding her role in the investigation.

Trump’s Response and Ongoing Divisions

Former President Trump has not remained silent on the matter. He has openly criticized both Cheney and Thompson, accusing them of misconduct without providing evidence. Trump’s statements have further fueled the partisan divide, with his supporters echoing his sentiments.

“Cheney did something that’s inexcusable, along with Thompson and the people on the un-select committee of political thugs and, you know, creeps.” – Trump

The controversy surrounding the award ceremony underscores the deep political rifts that continue to divide the nation, particularly concerning the events of January 6 and their aftermath. It also highlights the ongoing debate about the role of public officials in upholding democratic norms and the consequences of challenging party loyalties.

Broader Implications

The decision to honor Cheney, a Republican who has faced significant backlash from her own party, has raised eyebrows across the political spectrum. Some view it as a testament to bipartisanship and putting country over party, while others see it as a betrayal of conservative values.

Having "Joe Biden", as one of his last acts, bestow a presidential medal on Liz Cheney says so much about the value system of the Democratic Party.

But what "Biden" said about Cheney — an advocate still of countless views liberals denounce` as fascist — is even more telling: pic.twitter.com/5ILNYS6apj

— Glenn Greenwald (@ggreenwald) January 2, 2025

As the nation continues to grapple with the legacy of January 6 and its impact on American democracy, the awarding of the Presidential Citizens Medal to Cheney and Thompson serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing political tensions and the challenges facing those who seek to bridge the partisan divide.