The 2025 John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award went to Vice President Michael R. Pence for risking his life and career on January 6, 2021. The Award goes to public servants for making a courageous decision of conscience. Caroline Kennedy and Jack Schlossberg presented the award uesterday at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum.
Statement from Kennedy and Schlossberg:
“Political courage is not outdated in the United States. At every level of government, leaders are putting country first, and not backing down. 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 U.S. Capitol. Upholding his oath to the Constitution and following his conscience, the Vice President put his life, career, and political future on the line. His decision is an example of President Kennedy’s belief that an act of political courage can change the course of history.”Statement from Vice President Pence:
“I am deeply humbled and honored to be the recipient of the Kennedy Profile in Courage Award. 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 so many distinguished Americans who have received this recognition in the past.” Despite extraordinary pressure to single-handedly overturn the results of the 2020 election, Vice President Mike Pence stood firm in his commitment to democracy and ensured the constitutionally mandated transfer of power. On January 6, 2021, as the presidential election certification process unfolded, a violent mob determined to halt the certification stormed the U.S. Capitol and openly threatened Pence. While the Secret Service urged him to evacuate, Pence chose to remain at the Capitol, coordinating with military and Congressional leaders during the attack. Once the Capitol was cleared, Pence resumed the certification process, confirming the election results and demonstrating his resolve to uphold his constitutional duty.
