President Biden will be awarding former New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, along with three other failed White House candidates. Bloomberg, who spent over $1 billion on his own campaign for the 2020 Democratic nomination, ultimately only won American Samoa and was a major donor for congressional Democrats in 2022. The White House praised Bloomberg for his entrepreneurial spirit, philanthropy, and his three-term tenure as New York City Mayor, where he made significant impacts on education, the environment, public health, and the arts.
Joining Bloomberg in receiving the award are ex-presidential candidates Al Gore, John Kerry, and Elizabeth Dole, along with 15 others. Gore, the 2000 Democratic presidential nominee and former vice president, is being honored for his acceptance of the disputed election outcome and his actions on climate change. Kerry, the 2004 Democratic nominee, is recognized for his long public service career, which includes his role as Biden’s anti-global warming coordinator. Dole, who sought the Republican nomination in 2020, is praised for her foundation supporting military families and her trailblazing career as a senator and Cabinet secretary.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony will see these former White House aspirants together, a unique gathering that highlights their contributions and achievements. This event comes amid concerns about President Biden’s political future, as recent polls show him trailing former President Donald Trump, despite Trump’s legal troubles. The award recipients also include notable figures such as former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Rep. Jim Clyburn, talk show host Phil Donahue, Olympic swimmer Katie Ledecky, and actress Michelle Yeoh, showcasing a diverse group of individuals being recognized for their accomplishments.
Bloomberg’s wealth came from his success in financial technology, and he served as New York City Mayor from 2002-2013, initially as a Republican and later as an independent. His influence on various sectors in New York City, such as education, the environment, public health, and the arts, earned him praise from the White House. This award acknowledges his significant contributions and achievements in both the business world and public service, highlighting his dedication and impact over the years.
The recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, including Bloomberg, represent a mix of backgrounds and experiences, with each individual being recognized for their unique contributions to society. The event serves as a reminder of the impact that these individuals have had on various aspects of American life, from politics to philanthropy to entertainment. President Biden’s decision to honor these former White House candidates reflects his desire to associate himself with individuals who have shown dedication, leadership, and commitment to serving their communities, despite facing challenges and setbacks in their political careers.
The ceremony will take place at the White House, where President Biden will pay tribute to the award recipients and acknowledge their achievements. This event marks a significant moment in recognizing the contributions of these individuals to American society and serves as a reminder of the importance of dedication, service, and leadership in making a positive impact. By honoring these individuals, President Biden is highlighting the values of unity, service, and integrity that are essential for building a strong and prosperous nation. The diversity of backgrounds and accomplishments among the recipients showcases the rich tapestry of American life and the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of individuals from all walks of life.
