With about a week left in his term in the White House, President Obama made sure to thank someone who helped him the entire way: Vice President Joe Biden. On Thursday, he surprised the VP with an event in his honor—and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
President Obama led Biden into a room packed full of his loved ones and supporters, and Biden seemed genuinely surprised to see them there. "I just wanted to get some folks together to pay tribute to somebody who's not only been by my side for the duration of this amazing journey, but somebody who has devoted his entire professional life to service to this country. The best vice president America's ever had, Mr. Joe Biden," Obama said. "This also gives the Internet another chance to talk about our bromance.
POTUS calls Biden "the best vice president America has ever had...this also gives the internet one last chance to talk about our bromance." pic.twitter.com/aKNDjNvULxJanuary 12, 2017
After brief remarks paying tribute to Biden, the president announced he was giving him the nation's highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom. As soon as President Obama announced it, Biden reacted with shock, turned around, and was seen grabbing a tissue to wipe his tears.
He turned around, shaking his head, and taking a few deep breaths. Biden looked up, then closed his eyes to take in the honor.
The moment spread like wildfire on social media, and there wasn't a dry eye in the house. Regardless of political ideology, the strength of their bond got everyone emotional.
I don't care which side you're on, the tribute @POTUS just paid @JoeBiden was one of the most touching I've ever seen. Watch itJanuary 12, 2017
Joe Biden always has his heart on his sleeve and integrity in his soul. Gonna miss these two.January 12, 2017
Public life & personal loss make some ppl harden their hearts to protect themselves. It's made @JoeBiden 's heart stronger.January 12, 2017
Follow Marie Claire on Facebook for the latest celeb news, beauty tips, fascinating reads, livestream video, and more.
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
Megan Friedman is the former managing editor of the Newsroom at Hearst. She's worked at NBC and Time, and is a graduate of Northwestern's Medill School of Journalism.
-
I Work Out 5 Days a Week—These Are the Brands I Wear on Repeat
Sponsor Content Created With Nordstrom
By Emma Walsh Published
-
Princess Kate Will Be "Ready to Talk" About Her Absence When She Gets Back to Work, Source Claims
The Palace has released very few details about her illness and recovery.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Princess Kate Was Allegedly Spotted Looking "Happy, Relaxed and Healthy" at a Farm Shop This Weekend
Anonymous onlookers provided this description to 'The Sun.'
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
36 Ways Women Still Aren't Equal to Men
It's just one of the many ways women still aren't equal to men.
By Brooke Knappenberger Last updated
-
How New York's First Female Governor Plans to Fight for Women If Reelected
Kathy Hochul twice came to power because men resigned amid sexual harassment scandals. Here, how she's leading differently.
By Emily Tisch Sussman Last updated
-
Why the 2022 Midterm Elections Are So Critical
As we blaze through a highly charged midterm election season, Swing Left Executive Director Yasmin Radjy highlights rising stars who are fighting for women’s rights.
By Tanya Benedicto Klich Published
-
Tammy Duckworth: 'I’m Mad as Hell' About the Lack of Federal Action on Gun Safety
The Illinois Senator won't let the memory of the Highland Park shooting just fade away.
By Sen. Tammy Duckworth Published
-
Roe Is Gone. We Have to Keep Fighting.
Democracy always offers a path forward even when we feel thrust into the past.
By Beth Silvers and Sarah Stewart Holland, hosts of Pantsuit Politics Podcast Published
-
The Supreme Court's Mississippi Abortion Rights Case: What to Know
The case could threaten Roe v. Wade.
By Megan DiTrolio Published
-
Sex Trafficking Victims Are Being Punished. A New Law Could Change That.
Victims of sexual abuse are quietly criminalized. Sara's Law protects kids that fight back.
By Dr. Devin J. Buckley and Erin Regan Published
-
My Family and I Live in Navajo Nation. We Don't Have Access to Clean Running Water
"They say that the United States is one of the wealthiest countries in the world. Why are citizens still living with no access to clean water?"
By Amanda L. As Told To Rachel Epstein Published