Former President Donald Trump has announced his intention to award the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, to former Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson. The announcement was made during an event at Mount Vernon for the American Cornerstone Institute, which Carson founded. Carson, a 74-year-old former neurosurgeon, initially competed against Trump in the 2016 Republican presidential primary before serving as a cabinet member in Trump’s first administration. The two have since developed a close political relationship, with Carson serving as Trump’s national faith chairman for his 2024 campaign and having been considered a potential running mate. Carson is widely known for his strong social conservative positions, including his opposition to abortion rights and same-sex marriage. This potential award adds to the 24 medals Trump conferred during his first term and recent announcements for other recipients, including former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani.
Source: indianexpress.com