In a move that has stunned many across the political spectrum, former Vice President Mike Pence will be honored with the prestigious John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award. The award recognizes his unwavering decision to certify the 2020 presidential election results, despite facing intense pressure from then-President Donald Trump and widespread backlash from within his own party.
Announced on April 3 by the JFK Library Foundation, Pence was chosen for his “extraordinary courage” in defending the democratic process and ensuring the peaceful transfer of power—even in the face of personal danger. The foundation emphasized that Pence stood firm despite “extraordinary pressure to single-handedly” overturn the results of the election, per The Daily Beast.
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On January 6, 2021, as violent rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol in an effort to halt the certification, Pence remained inside the building. Even after being urged by the Secret Service to evacuate, he refused to leave until Congress could resume the certification process.
The JFK Profile in Courage Award is given annually to public servants who make courageous decisions of conscience, putting principle above personal or political gain. Past recipients include Presidents Barack Obama, Gerald Ford, and George H.W. Bush, as well as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Pence is now set to join this notable group.
The award will be formally presented on May 4 by Caroline Kennedy and John F. Kennedy’s grandson, Jack Schlossberg. In a joint statement, the two praised Pence’s bravery:
“Despite our political differences, it is hard to imagine an act of greater consequence than Vice President Pence’s decision to certify the 2020 presidential election during an attack on the US Capitol.”
They added that his actions reflected President Kennedy’s belief that political courage has the power to “change the course of history.”
Pence said he was “deeply humbled” and “honored” by the recognition, noting that JFK has been an inspiration to him since his youth.
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Public reactions have poured in on social media, ranging from surprise to admiration. Many highlighted the significance of Pence standing up to Trump at such a critical moment. As one user posted:
“Mike Pence, even though he looked lovingly at Trump for 4 years, had the courage to say no to him with the country on the line. A profile in courage.”
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