He did not like Biden’s choice.
President Joe Biden is facing significant backlash for bestowing the Presidential Medal of Freedom upon billionaire George Soros, who has drawn criticism for his efforts to help elect district attorneys perceived by detractors as being lenient on crime.
On Saturday, the White House revealed a list of 19 honorees who would be receiving the nation’s highest civilian award. The ceremony later that day included various influential figures, one of whom was Soros, identified by the administration as “an investor and philanthropist” committed to advancing democracy, human rights, and social justice through his global network of foundations spanning over 120 countries.
According to the White House, the Presidential Medal of Freedom recognizes those who have made “outstanding contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant public or private endeavors.” President Biden praised Soros and the other recipients for their role in making both America and the world a better place.
Despite these commendations, Biden’s decision to honor Soros sparked outrage among critics. Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas took to X (formerly Twitter), denouncing the award as “outrageous but expected.” Cotton linked Soros’ support for progressive prosecutors to a broader accusation that Democrats prioritize criminals over law enforcement, claiming they aim to increase criminal activity by keeping offenders on the streets.
On his podcast “War Room,” Steve Bannon, former advisor to Donald Trump, also criticized the decision, referring to Soros as “the demon himself.” Bannon suggested a symbolic “exorcism” was necessary, calling on Catholic priests and other religious leaders to intervene. He connected his remarks to broader frustrations with perceived Democratic policies and figures, including Hillary Clinton. Elon Musk, CEO of X and Tesla, also weighed in, reiterating past criticisms of Soros during an episode of “The Joe Rogan Experience,” in which he suggested Soros was actively undermining societal stability.
Reports from the Law Enforcement Legal Defense Fund in 2024 and the Capital Research Center in 2023 highlighted Soros’ financial support for electing progressive district attorneys across the U.S., noting he had spent over $40 million to back candidates, many of whom were criticized for being “soft” on crime. Rising crime rates in several cities led to reelection defeats for some Soros-backed prosecutors, even in traditionally liberal areas.
In Los Angeles County, District Attorney George Gascon lost by a wide margin following criticism of his handling of rising homicides and organized retail theft. In Virginia’s Loudoun County, Buta Biberaj, known for controversial prosecutorial decisions, narrowly lost her reelection. Meanwhile, in Alameda County, California, District Attorney Pamela Price was recalled after accusations of leniency in high-profile cases, including reducing charges in a triple homicide case.
The growing criticism reflects ongoing debates about criminal justice reform and public safety, with Soros’ involvement continuing to draw both praise and condemnation depending on political perspectives.