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Biden awards Presidential Citizens medal to 20 Honorees

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President Joe Biden is honoring Liz Cheney and Bennie Thompson with the Presidential Citizens Medal, the nation’s second highest civilian award.

These dedicated lawmakers spearheaded the congressional investigation into the violent January 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol riot, which was incited by supporters of Donald Trump.

Notably, Trump has publicly stated that they should face imprisonment for their actions.

On Thursday, Biden will present the Presidential Citizens Medal to 20 remarkable individuals during a ceremony at the White House.

Among the honorees are Americans who supported marriage equality, a pioneer in treating wounded soldiers, and two friends of Biden.

The White House stated, “President Biden believes these individuals share a bond of decency and a commitment to serving others.”

The statement emphasizes that the nation is better off due to their dedication and sacrifices, highlighting their impact on society.

Last year, Biden recognized individuals who defended the Capitol during the riots or helped protect the integrity of the 2020 presidential election.

This was in response to Trump’s unsuccessful attempts to overturn the election results, demonstrating the ongoing struggle for democracy.

Cheney, a Republican from Wyoming, and Thompson, a Democrat from Mississippi, led the House committee investigating the insurrection.

Cheney has since expressed her support for Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris in the upcoming 2024 presidential race, even campaigning alongside her, which angered Trump.

Biden is contemplating preemptive pardons for Cheney and others targeted by Trump.

Despite winning the 2024 election and set to take office on January 20, Trump continues to propagate falsehoods about the 2020 election.

He has indicated plans to pardon the rioters once he assumes office, further complicating the political landscape.

In a recent NBC “Meet the Press” interview, Trump criticized Cheney and Thompson, calling them “political thugs.”

He alleged, without evidence, that they had “deleted and destroyed” crucial testimony during the investigation they were part of.

He stated, “Honestly, they should go to jail,” showcasing his ongoing animosity towards those who opposed him.

Biden is honoring attorney Mary Bonauto, an essential figure in legalizing same-sex marriage, alongside Evan Wolfson, a marriage equality leader.

Notable honorees include Frank Butler, who revolutionized tourniquet use for war injuries, and Diane Carlson Evans, a Vietnam nurse.

Also recognized are photographer Bobby Sager and academics Thomas Vallely and Paula Wallace, along with Frances Visco.

Former lawmakers like Bill Bradley, Nancy Kassebaum, and Carolyn McCarthy are being celebrated for their impactful contributions to society.

Among the honorees are Joseph Galloway, a deceased Vietnam War correspondent; civil rights activist Louis Lorenzo Redding; Collins Seitz, and Mitsuye Endo Tsutsumi.

President Richard Nixon instituted the Presidential Citizens Medal in 1969.

It honors any United States citizen who has performed especially meritorious service.

Currently well recognized as the country’s second highest civilian honor after the Presidential Medal of Freedom, it gives regard to how great the effect of their contribution to American society has been.