Biden is giving the second highest civilian award to the leaders of the Jan. 6 congressional panel
Associated PressDEC 2024
Biden's Citizens Medal Awardees Include Liz Cheney
Above: US Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) and former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.) participate in the last public meeting of the Jan. 6 Committee on Dec. 19, 2022. Image copyright: Anna Moneymaker/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Democratic narrative
These honorees are a diverse group of heroes. Cheney, in particular, exemplifies bipartisan bravery. Once a top Republican, she sacrificed her career to oppose Trump’s attack on democracy with an unwavering defense of constitutional values. Despite GOP backlash, she proved herself a rare political leader.
Republican narrative
Giving Cheney this award is politically driven, rewarding her opposition to Trump rather than recognizing actual nonpartisan service. This aligns with Biden’s poor record on justice, including controversial pardons and reduced sentences like that of a convicted child rapist, further tarnishing his legacy.