Mike Pence to Receive John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award

BOSTON, Mass. — Former Vice President Mike Pence has been awarded the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award for his role in certifying the 2020 presidential election results. The announcement was made Thursday by the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation. The award recognizes individuals who demonstrate courage and integrity in public service, often facing significant personal risk.

In a statement, Caroline Kennedy and Jack Schlossberg, the foundation’s leaders, expressed that Pence’s decision to certify the election during the attack on the U.S. Capitol exemplified remarkable political courage. “It is hard to imagine an act of greater consequence,” they said. “Upholding his oath to the Constitution and following his conscience, the Vice President put his life, career, and political future on the line.”

Pence, who served as Donald Trump’s vice president, will receive the award during a ceremony on May 4 at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library in Boston. He described his selection as “deeply humbled and honored.” He added, “I have been inspired by the life and words of President John F. Kennedy since my youth and am honored to join the company of many distinguished Americans who have received this recognition in the past.”

On January 6, 2021, Pence presided over the certification process of Joe Biden‘s victory while a mob, incited by Trump’s rhetoric, stormed the Capitol. Following the event, Pence stated that Trump’s words endangered his family and others within the Capitol building. Despite their past partnership, Pence has been a vocal critic of Trump in recent months, particularly in relation to the events of January 6.

Previously, he declined to endorse Trump during the 2024 Republican primary, stating, “I simply cannot in good conscience endorse his candidacy this year.” Pence has focused on differentiating himself from Trump, saying that he remains proud of the legacy they created during their administration.

The John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award, established in 1989, honors public servants who have made difficult decisions without regard for the consequences to themselves. Notable past recipients include former Presidents Barack Obama, Gerald Ford, George H.W. Bush, and more recently, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

The award ceremony will be notable not only for Pence but as a reminder of the intense political climate and the resilience of those who act in accordance with their principles amidst turmoil.