On Saturday, President Donald Trump announced that he would award Ben Carson the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which is recognized as the highest civilian honor in the United States. This announcement marks the third such award that Trump has made in the month of October.
During an event held at Mount Vernon for the American Cornerstone Institute, an organization founded by Carson, Trump expressed his congratulations to Carson. “Congratulations, Ben. He didn’t know this. I hope he’s happy,” Trump remarked in his speech, indicating that the honor was a surprise for the former neurosurgeon.
Ben Carson, 74, previously served as the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development during Trump’s first term after running against him in the 2016 Republican presidential primaries. Despite their initial rivalry, the two developed a close friendship over the years. Carson was also seen as a major contender for Trump’s running mate in the anticipated 2024 presidential campaign, and he served as the national faith chairman for Trump’s campaign in the previous election cycle.
A staunch social conservative, Carson has made headlines for his vocal opposition to abortion rights and same-sex marriage. He has since gained recognition as a prominent conservative speaker and author, further solidifying his influence within the party.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom, established in 1963, is conferred upon individuals who have made significant contributions to the security and national interests of the United States, as well as to world peace or cultural and public endeavors that are of considerable importance. Throughout his first term, Trump awarded the medal to 24 individuals, and he has already announced two additional recipients since returning to the presidency.
While Trump did not specify a date for when Carson would receive the Medal of Freedom, it has been noted that other honorees are already in the pipeline. Earlier in October, Trump indicated that he would bestow the medal on former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani, shortly after Giuliani sustained serious injuries in a car accident.
Additionally, during a commemoration event on September 11 at the Pentagon, Trump announced that he would posthumously award the Medal of Freedom to conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was tragically assassinated earlier in the month. Trump is expected to attend Kirk’s memorial service in Arizona on the following Sunday.
As the announcements surrounding the Medal of Freedom continue to unfold, they reflect not only the recipients' contributions to the nation but also highlight the ongoing connections and alliances within the Republican Party as it heads into the next election cycle.
