The Medal of Freedom’s value is questioned as many recipients lack merit
Loop: So, I’ve been thinking about the Presidential Medal of Freedom lately. It seems like it’s lost its shine. Ever since Obama started handing it out, and then Trump and now Biden, it feels like the award doesn’t mean what it used to.
Biden’s been giving it to celebrities, donors, and athletes. Sure, some like Hillary Clinton have done a lot for the public, but most don’t really deserve it.
I’ve got some ideas for new rules on who should get the medal. First off, if you got rich from your “merit,” you probably shouldn’t qualify. That would knock out a lot of celebs and athletes. Also, if you’ve donated over $10,000 to the president’s party, that’s a no-go. And foreigners? Only if you’re a big deal like Winston Churchill.
The award should really benefit everyone in the U.S., not just a select few. Honestly, if you’re the pope, you probably just chuckle when you get it. You’re already the pope!
It’s a bit of a tongue-in-cheek suggestion, but hey, it could be a start to making the award meaningful again.
Ronald W. Cobb Jr., Loop
