The Biden administration’s decision to award billionaire investor and Democratic donor George Soros the Presidential Medal of Freedom has ignited strong reactions from conservative commentators.
Former Trump adviser Steve Bannon criticized the move, calling it a disgrace. On his War Room podcast, Bannon referred to Soros as a “demonic individual” who he alleged had worked to undermine the United States and its constitution. He suggested that the medal should be “ripped” from Soros’s neck.
Fox News host Rachel Campos-Duffy also expressed disapproval, claiming the award was given to individuals who had “destroyed freedom.” Co-host Joe Concha labeled Soros the “most evil man on the planet.”
Tesla CEO Elon Musk joined the chorus of criticism, calling the decision a “travesty.”
Soros, 94, has long been a focal point for conservative criticism, largely due to his substantial financial contributions to Democratic causes and progressive candidates. Over the years, he has donated an estimated $32 billion to support initiatives such as voting rights and criminal justice reform.
The decision to honor Soros also drew backlash on social media, with some users comparing it to awarding a medal to the fictional Star Wars villain Emperor Palpatine.
Despite the criticism, many celebrated Soros’s recognition. Voting rights activist Stacey Abrams expressed gratitude for his contributions to voting rights and economic opportunity, highlighting his commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Alex Soros, his son, also expressed pride in the recognition, emphasizing his father’s lifelong dedication to freedom and human rights. Alex accepted the award on behalf of his father during the ceremony at the White House.
In his introduction, President Biden praised Soros for his philanthropy, describing it as an embodiment of the “capacity and obligation to stand up to the abuse of power” and a testament to the importance of protecting democracy.
Other honorees at the ceremony included Bono, Hillary Clinton, Earvin “Magic” Johnson, and Michael J. Fox.
