Former Vice President Mike Pence received recognition for his commitment to the U.S. Constitution during a ceremony where he was awarded the prestigious John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award. Pence was honored for his decision to resist pressure from then-President Donald Trump to overturn the 2020 election results. This award acknowledges Pence’s pivotal role in ensuring the peaceful transfer of power on January 6, 2021, despite the challenges and threats he faced at the time.
In accepting the award, Pence emphasized the importance of the Constitution in uniting Americans. He expressed hope that his presence at the event would serve as a reminder of the shared foundation that the Constitution provides, bridging differences across parties and generations. He remarked, “Whatever differences we may have as Americans, the Constitution is the common ground on which we stand.”
This recognition comes following an interview with Donald Trump, where he was asked about the rights of citizens and noncitizens under the Fifth Amendment of the Constitution. Trump’s reply indicated uncertainty, saying he wasn’t a lawyer and couldn’t provide a definite answer. Pence, in contrast, chose not to mention Trump directly in his address but reflected on the administration’s past, acknowledging the ongoing divisions within political parties.
Pence highlighted the global leadership role of the United States and emphasized the need for America to support Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. This stands as part of his broader vision of national and international unity and strength.
The events of January 6 marked a significant chapter in Pence’s career, where he refused Trump’s demands to reject the electoral results from key swing states, citing a lack of authority to do so. During the Capitol riot, Pence was targeted by some protestors. Despite the serious threats, he remained at the Capitol to fulfill his constitutional duty once it was safe to resume the election certification.
Reflecting on that day, Pence shared that it was a moment of both tragedy and triumph, highlighting the resilience of American institutions. His steadfast actions were commended by Caroline Kennedy and her son, Jack Schlossberg, who presented him with the award. They noted that Pence’s courage served as a critical reminder of the importance of protecting democracy.
The Profile in Courage Award, named after a book written by John F. Kennedy, is given to public figures who exemplify integrity and bravery, even in the face of potential personal and political fallout. Notable past recipients include Barack Obama, George H.W. Bush, and Gerald Ford.
Pence’s current role as a leading Republican voice often sees him challenging the policies of the Trump administration. He has been active through his political group, Advancing American Freedom, which recently opposed the nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to a prominent health leadership position. In this capacity, he continues to advocate for alliances both domestic and international, emphasizing the limits of presidential power amid ongoing political discourse.