President Joe Biden is honoring Liz Cheney and Bennie Thompson with the Presidential Citizens Medal, the second highest civilian award in the United States, for their leadership in the congressional investigation into the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot. This ceremony will take place at the White House, where Biden will recognize a total of 20 recipients for their exemplary service to the nation.

Cheney, a former Republican representative from Wyoming, and Thompson, a Mississippi Democrat, co-chaired the House Select Committee that probed the events surrounding the January 6 insurrection. The investigation concluded that former President Donald Trump engaged in a "multi-part conspiracy" to undermine the 2020 election results. Trump, who won the 2024 election and will resume office on January 20, has publicly stated that Cheney and Thompson should be jailed for their efforts, labeling them as "political thugs" during a recent appearance on NBC's "Meet the Press" (VOA News).

In a statement issued by the White House, it was noted that “President Biden believes these Americans are bonded by their common decency and commitment to serving others.” The Medal is awarded to those who have performed outstanding deeds of service for their country and fellow citizens. Alongside Cheney and Thompson, recipients will also include notable figures such as Mary Bonauto, a lawyer advocating for marriage equality, and Evan Wolfson, a leader in the marriage equality movement. Other honorees include Frank Butler, a pioneer in battlefield trauma care, and Diane Carlson Evans, an Army nurse who founded the Vietnam Women’s Memorial Foundation.

The contributions of these leaders during a tumultuous time in American history have been recognized as crucial in upholding democratic values. Biden previously honored those who defended the Capitol on the day of the riot and has considered offering preemptive pardons to Cheney and others targeted by Trump (AP News).

This year’s ceremony further emphasizes the ongoing dialogue about democracy, accountability, and the importance of honoring those who contribute positively to society. Along with individuals receiving the medal, the President will honor four posthumously, including Mitsuye Endo Tsutsumi, who challenged the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II.

The Presidential Citizens Medal, established in 1969 by President Nixon, stands as one of the highest honors a citizen can receive, following the Presidential Medal of Freedom. As stated by the White House, it recognizes actions driven by exemplary service to the country and is a beacon of acknowledgment for those who embody the values the nation strives to uphold.

For further details, see The Guardian and Los Angeles Times.