In a significant gesture as he nears the end of his political tenure, President Biden is set to present 19 Medals of Freedom on Saturday, an event that symbolizes his enduring commitment to the traditional political landscape he has navigated for decades. With only 16 days remaining in his administration before President-elect Donald Trump takes over, Biden's selection of honorees reflects a clear message amidst ongoing political tensions.

This award ceremony comes at a time when Trump has vowed to dismantle what he refers to as “the swamp,” which he claims has fostered a system benefiting entrenched elites while neglecting the broader populace. The list of recipients includes notable figures like Hillary Clinton, the former first lady, senator, and secretary of state, whom Trump has infamously threatened to jail; Robert F. Kennedy, the late senator's son, and George Romney, the father of Senator Mitt Romney, a vocal critic of Trump.

Among the honorees, Biden also recognizes major political donors, spotlighting George Soros, a billionaire consistently vilified by Republicans as a puppeteer behind liberal policies. Another recipient, Anna Wintour, a prominent figure in fashion and media, has been a critical supporter of Biden, featuring First Lady Jill Biden on the cover of Vogue and hosting numerous fundraisers.

In awarding these medals, the 82-year-old president aims not only to honor individual accomplishments but to champion the democratic ideals he believes are under threat in the current political climate.

For further details, read the full article on the New York Times.