WASHINGTON — President Biden will award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to former New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg on Friday afternoon, along with three other unsuccessful White House candidates.
Mr. Bloomberg personally spent more than $1 billion fighting for the Democratic nomination against Mr. Biden in 2020, ultimately endorsing only American Samoa, and in 2022, Congressional Democrats defeated expectations of a Republican landslide victory. became the top donor.
“Mayor Michael Bloomberg is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and three-term mayor. He revolutionized the financial information industry and transformed New York City’s education, environment, public health, and the arts.” The White House said at the time of the award announcement.
He will be honored at the White House along with 15 others, including fellow former presidential candidates Al Gore, John Kerry and Elizabeth Dole.
Mr. Bloomberg made his fortune in financial technology and served as New York City’s mayor from 2002 to 2013, first as a Republican and then as an independent.
Mr. Gore is a former vice president and the 2000 Democratic presidential candidate.
Mr Kerry was the party’s failed choice in 2004.
Dole sought the Republican nomination in 2020.
Presidents typically use the award to associate themselves with recipients.
The White House said Gore was awarded the award in part because:[a]After winning the popular vote, he launched a controversial presidential campaign for “our unity” and subsequent “bold action on climate change,” in sharp contrast to former President Donald Trump. accepted the election results.
Kerry’s citation cited his service in the Vietnam War and “his 70-year career in public service” as a senator from Massachusetts and, most recently, as Biden’s anti-global warming coordinator. mentioned.
Dole was praised for her foundation supporting military families and her career as a “pioneering” senator and cabinet secretary.
The former White House candidate’s unusual gathering comes despite the former president’s four criminal indictments, including an ongoing hush money trial in New York. (77 years old) was shown to be lagging behind, and it was carried out at a time of crisis.
Other honorees include former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), Rep. Jim Clyburn (D-S.C.), talk show host Phil Donahue and Olympic swimmer Katie. Ledecky and “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” actress Michelle Yeoh.
