Former Vice President Mike Pence is set to receive the 2025 John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award for his role in certifying the 2020 election results, as announced by the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation. Pence oversaw the certification of Joe Biden as the winner of the 2020 election, even in the face of intense pressure from Donald Trump to overturn the results amidst the turmoil at the U.S. Capitol.
Pence’s Courageous Stand
The decision made by Pence on January 6, 2020, has been recognized as a shining example of President Kennedy’s belief in the power of political courage to shape history. Caroline Kennedy and Jack Schlossberg, descendants of JFK, will present Pence with the award at a ceremony on May 4 at the Kennedy Library in Boston.
Caroline Kennedy and Jack Schlossberg praised Pence’s actions, stating, “Vice President Pence’s decision to certify the 2020 presidential election amidst the chaos at the Capitol, despite political differences, showcased true courage and commitment to upholding the Constitution.”
Political Courage in Today’s Climate
The award presentation highlighted the significance of political courage in the current political landscape. Pence’s willingness to stand by his oath and conscience, even when faced with personal risk, was commended as a rare display of integrity in modern politics.
Notably, the Profile in Courage award has been a symbol of honoring public servants who prioritize conscience over personal gain since its inception in 1989. Pence joins a prestigious list of past recipients who have exhibited similar acts of courage in their public service.
While the White House refrained from immediate comment on Pence’s recognition, the award serves as a reminder of the enduring value of principled decision-making in governance.
As the legacy of political courage continues, the JFK Profile in Courage Award stands as a beacon of recognition for individuals who prioritize the greater good over personal interests.
