Biden's decision to honour George Soros with Presidential Medal of Freedom sparks social media outrage

US President Joe Biden's decision to award billionaire philanthropist George Soros the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honour, has sparked a backlash on social media.

On Sunday, X CEO Elon Musk called the decision a "travesty."



Musk also shared a meme comparing Soros to Darth Sidious from Star Wars. "George Soros looking quite good here. Must be the lighting," he said.


Former union minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar drew parallels to Indian politics, commenting on X, “George Soros getting US Medal of Freedom reminds me how Padma Awards were given during Cong UPA.”

He added, “In 2010, I was proposed for Padma for my Telecom work. I was approached for a bribe of 1cr. I refused. UPA govt gave it to bank defaulter Chatwal.”


Social media users reaction

The decision also drew sharp remarks on social media. “The President says he is giving #GeorgeSoros our nation's highest civilian honor. That's it for Biden. Soros supports policies that have killed thousands of Americans. Soros is an ardent open border guy. One word: Fentanyl. Biden has now damaged his legacy beyond repair,” social media user Bill O’Reilly said.


Indian political analyst Tehseen Poonawalla posted on X, “As President Joe Biden confers upon George Soros - America's highest civilian honour : The Medal of Freedom I want to ask my friends who are (for no reason thus far) uncomfortable with @elonmusk talking politics, serving his country & standing up for free speech & humanity, how are you guys okay with George Soros 'doing the Tango' with politicians from across the globe that want to restrict our freedoms and take away our rights!”


Another social media user Jeffrey Zimmerman posted on X, “Presidential Medal of Honor recipient #GeorgeSoros is the largest financier for the pro-Hamas movement that is terrorizing Jewish students on college campuses and wrecking havoc in our streets. He is a truly evil person.”


Who is George Soros?

Soros, a billionaire investor, is a divisive figure, often criticised by Republican politicians. His Open Society Foundations, which champion democratic institutions, human rights and education, have made him a frequent target of conservative ire. Critics argue that his substantial financial contributions to political campaigns threaten the democratic process, while supporters laud his philanthropic efforts to foster global equality.