The White House announced on Saturday the 19 recipients of this year’s Presidential Medal of Freedom, recognizing people from different walks of life: politics, philanthropy, sports, and the arts. Soros, a billionaire investor and founder of the Open Society Foundations, was recognized for his global efforts in promoting democracy, human rights, education, and social justice.
Other notable honorees include former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, soccer star Lionel Messi, and actors Michael J. Fox and Denzel Washington. Alex Soros accepted the award on behalf of his father, George Soros, during the ceremony.
The decision to honor Soros has sparked mixed reactions. He is a huge donor to causes that support Democratic causes, so he is often targeted by republican politicians. As such, its critics, with the likes of Musk and Republican figures, argue it is politically inspired. President Biden defended the recipients, saying the recipients represent American values and worldwide influence.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has been very vocal about criticizing President Joe Biden’s decision to award billionaire philanthropist George Soros the Presidential Medal of Freedom. He went to X, calling it a “travesty.”
A travesty that Biden is giving Soros the Medal of Freedom https://t.co/LGvGe8kqKE
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 4, 2025
“These nineteen individuals are exceptional leaders that have done extraordinary work for our country and the world. They embody the values of America, even when under attack,” Biden said at the announcement.
Soros is a very polarizing figure in US politics, who has been criticized by Republicans as using his money to influence the global political order. His initiatives have been stirring controversy not only in the US but also in countries such as Hungary and Russia, which view his actions as foreign interference.
In India, a political row became centered around Soros in December with the beginning of the Winter Session of Parliament. BJP leader JP Nadda accused Congress of being “Soros’ proxy and those of his entities” – in a plot to destabilize India. Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge described the charge as “motivated” and that the attention from the Congress is being sidestepped toward issues of the nation’s “bigger socio-economic concerns.”.
Soros’ Open Society Foundations continue to face resistance globally, reflecting the complex and often polarizing impact of his philanthropic endeavors.
