• President Joe Biden is awarding the Presidential Citizens Medal to Liz Cheney and Bennie Thompson, leaders of the congressional investigation into the January 6 insurrection.
• The ceremony will take place at the White House, where Biden recognizes 20 individuals for their exemplary public service.
• Among the honorees are those who contributed to marriage equality and significant advances in medical practices for wounded veterans.
• Former President Donald Trump has criticized the decision, claiming the committee members should be jailed.
• The Presidential Citizens Medal is the second-highest civilian award, honoring those who have truly served their country and communities.

In a significant gesture, President Biden will confer the prestigious Presidential Citizens Medal upon Liz Cheney, the former Republican representative from Wyoming, and Bennie Thompson, a serving Mississippi Democratic Congressman. These individuals have been at the forefront of the investigation into the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot carried out by supporters of then-President Donald Trump who sought to overturn the electoral outcome of the 2020 presidential race. This honor reflects Biden's acknowledgment of their steadfast commitment amidst attempts by Trump to delegitimize their efforts, including calls from Trump claiming they should be jailed.

The upcoming ceremony scheduled to occur at the White House will also include awards to advocates of marriage equality and those making strides in veteran care. Biden's administration is intentionally recognizing individuals who exemplify civic duty and integrity, stating, “The country is better because of their dedication and sacrifice.” This award is not only a recognition of their recent efforts but also a nod to those who bravely defended the democratic process following the Capitol riot, during which lawmakers were endangered.

Trump's historical criticism of both Cheney and Thompson has intensified, with him labeling the committee's findings as a politically motivated scheme. During recent comments, he outright attacked their credibility while vowing to issue pardons for the rioters should he return to power as president. Cheney, who campaigned alongside Biden’s prospective successor, Vice President Kamala Harris, has publicly stood against Trump’s misappropriations of facts surrounding the 2020 elections, further fueling the political tensions.

The Presidential Citizens Medal, established in 1969, serves to honor the citizens who display exemplary service to their nation or fellow citizens. This latest award ceremony illustrates the ongoing commitment of Biden to acknowledge those who uphold democratic values amidst a polarized political landscape.

For additional details, visit The Guardian or Los Angeles Times for more information.