Staff Reports
President Joe Biden made headlines recently by bestowing the highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom with distinction, upon Pope Francis. In a world where accolades are handed out like candy, this particular award might raise some eyebrows. The pontiff is praised for being a “light of faith, hope, and love,” but these glowing descriptors might sound more like a marketing campaign for a new faith-based product than an actual assessment of leadership.
Originally, Biden had planned to present the medal during an in-person ceremony in Rome. However, he abruptly canceled the trip, citing a desire to oversee wildfires in California. It seems as if the President decided that teleconferencing his way through this award presentation was a preferable option rather than facing the international stage. Who needs face-to-face diplomacy when you can discuss world peace from the comfort of the Oval Office?
Biden awards Pope Francis with highest civilian honor, Presidential Medal of Freedom, over the phone https://t.co/6in53eWGIu
— Fox News (@FoxNews) January 12, 2025
Notably, this marks the only time Biden has awarded the Medal of Freedom with distinction during his presidency, which makes one wonder if he was saving it for a special occasion or just couldn’t bear to give it out more frequently. After all, Biden himself is an award recipient, thanks to a surprise ceremony thrown by Barack Obama—a gesture that seems less about merit and more about keeping the old boys’ club alive and well in Washington.
In his citation, the pope is credited for his tireless mission to serve the poor and engage in interfaith outreach, among other lofty goals. However, many conservatives find irony in a man who espouses environmentalism while living in a lavish Vatican palace. It prompts skepticism about whether those qualifications translate into actual results, especially in terms of world peace or alleviating suffering. What could be more entertaining than a spiritual leader taking a private jet to preach sustainability?
As Biden winds down his presidency, the award’s timing feels like a booster shot for a nearing legacy heavily criticized during his term. The medal presentation, though perhaps well-intentioned, serves as a stark reminder that favor is often given to allies and friends, regardless of how detached they might be from the everyday issues Americans face.
