Biden Honors January 6 Committee Members with Presidential Medal

In a ceremony held at the White House, President Joe Biden awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal to individuals who contributed significantly to American democracy, including members of the congressional committee investigating the January 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol. The event, marking the second-highest civilian honor in the U.S., recognized 20 honorees for their roles in defending the nation’s core values.

Among the awardees were key figures such as an activist for same-sex marriage legalization, a military doctor who revolutionized battlefield trauma care, and a civil rights leader pivotal in desegregation efforts. Biden referenced the U.S. Constitution, emphasizing the importance of the citizenry over the office of president, underscoring the foundation of the nation.

Two former legislators received particular mention for their work on the January 6 committee: Bennie Thompson, the chair of the committee, and Liz Cheney, the vice chair. Cheney, once a member of the Republican Party, received extended applause for her commitment to the truth, prioritizing the welfare of the nation above party affiliation.

The January 6 attack was sparked by former President Trump’s unsubstantiated claims of election fraud. Supporters of Trump stormed the Capitol, disrupting the certification of election results. The ensuing riot led to the evacuation of lawmakers and significant violence, including threats against Vice President Pence. To date, over 1,500 individuals have been charged, and many have been sentenced for their roles in the violence.

Biden had previously awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal to law enforcement officers and election workers who were threatened during the post-election period. Thursday's ceremony honored a broader group of individuals who had dedicated their careers to safeguarding democracy.

The ceremony occurred just before the fourth anniversary of the January 6 attack, and weeks before Trump's potential second term as president. The committee’s final report, released in 2023, concluded that Trump was the central figure behind the insurrection and recommended criminal charges against him.

Cheney, a vocal critic of Trump, has continued to speak out against his influence on the Republican Party. She accused Trump of transforming the party into a “cult of personality” and expressed concern over his threat to U.S. democracy. Trump, in response, suggested legal consequences for the committee members and continued to attack their findings, labeling them politically motivated.