Trump Announces Plan to Award Ben Carson the Presidential Medal of Freedom

President Donald Trump announced Saturday night that Dr. Ben Carson will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, in recognition of his life of service and commitment to the nation’s founding values.

“Congratulations, Ben. He didn’t know this. He didn’t know it. I hope he’s happy,” Trump said with a smile at the end of his remarks during the American Cornerstone Institute’s Founders’ Dinner in Washington, D.C.

The surprise announcement drew a standing ovation from attendees. A formal ceremony at the White House is expected to take place in the coming weeks.

Dr. Carson, who served as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development during Trump’s first term, is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished neurosurgeons in American history and a longtime advocate for faith-based and community-driven solutions to poverty. He ran for president in 2016 before endorsing Trump and later launching the American Cornerstone Institute to continue advancing the values of “Faith, Liberty, Community, and Life.”

Trump praised Carson’s character, his integrity, and his lifelong devotion to public service, saying, “Dr. Carson embodies everything the Medal of Freedom is supposed to represent. He’s a brilliant man, a kind man, and a man who has never backed down from fighting for what’s right.”

Carson recently made headlines for delivering a stirring tribute at the memorial service for slain conservative leader Charlie Kirk, where he honored Kirk’s legacy and called for Americans to “stand firm in faith and conviction.” He has also endorsed Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) for re-election, calling him “a steadfast conservative leader.”

The announcement marks yet another high-profile Medal of Freedom honoree under President Trump’s second term. Previous recipients have included Rush Limbaugh, Herschel Walker, and posthumously, Charlie Kirk.