Elon Musk ignited a firestorm after President Joe Biden awarded billionaire financier George Soros the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, on Saturday. Known for his sharp criticism of Soros, Musk called the recognition a “travesty” during a podcast appearance, claiming Soros “fundamentally hates humanity.”

Taking his disapproval further, Musk posted a meme on Twitter comparing Soros to Darth Sidious from Star Wars, quipping, “George Soros looking quite good here. Must be the lighting.”

GOP leaders join the backlash
Republican leaders joined Musk in condemning Biden’s decision. Nikki Haley, a GOP leader, labeled the award “another slap in the face of America,” referencing Biden’s clemency decisions and accusing him of prioritizing political agendas over national values.
“Sixteen days until the inauguration. What’s next? January 20th can’t come soon enough,” Haley remarked.

Donald Trump Jr echoed the outrage, posting a viral video of a pizza delivery driver who saved five children from a burning home. “This guy deserves the Presidential Medal of Freedom, not Soros,” he tweeted, criticizing the inclusion of Soros in the list of honorees.
Soros’ philanthropy acknowledged amid criticism
Soros, known for his global philanthropy and advocacy for human rights, received the award for his efforts in promoting democracy, education, and justice worldwide. The citation praised his journey from surviving Nazi-occupied Hungary to becoming a champion of open societies and social justice.
Accepting the award on behalf of his father, Alexander Soros called him “an American patriot who has spent his life fighting for freedom and human rights.”
A divisive figure in politics
While Soros is celebrated for his philanthropy, his political activism has long drawn criticism. A significant donor to the Democratic Party, Soros has also funded progressive district attorneys, a move his critics blame for rising crime in major US cities.
His international activism has been no less controversial. In a 2020 speech at the World Economic Forum, Soros criticized nationalism, including in India, calling it the “biggest setback” for global democracy.

A star-studded honoree list
Soros was one of 19 Medal of Freedom recipients, including soccer legend Lionel Messi, basketball star Magic Johnson, activist and singer Bono, and actor Michael J. Fox. Posthumous honors were given to civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer.
The recognition of Soros, however, remains the most debated, amplifying the cultural and political divides surrounding his legacy.