Q&A on the News

What did Miriam Adelson do to deserve the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and how does that compare to the accomplishments of prior recipients?

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The Presidential Medal of Freedom is awarded to “individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the security or national interests of America, to world peace, or to cultural or other signifificant public or private endeavors,” according to the White House. Individuals in fifields such as entertainment, sports, business, journalism, public service and medicine have received the medal since it was established in 1968.

A st atement from the White House said Adelson is a philanthropist, humanitarian and doctor wi th a specialization in narcotic addiction. It noted that she founded two research centers focused on fifififighting substance abuse and supports Jewish nonprofifififififits and causes. She and her husband, billionaire Sheldon Adelson, also founded the Adelson Medical Research Foundation, which seeks “to prevent, reduce or eliminate disabling and life- threatening illness,” according to its website.

A Washington Post story noted that the couple during the 2018 midterms donated at least $87 million to Republican candidates an d that some criticized her selection when she was awarded the medal in November.

OLIVIER DOULIERY / ABACA PRESS President Donald Trump awards the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Dr. Miriam Adelson at the White House on Nov. 16 in Washington, D.C. The Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian award of the U.S.