Former President Donald Trump publicly endorsed the decision by the West Point alumni association to cancel an awards ceremony honoring actor Tom Hanks. In a social media post, Trump lauded the move as "smart," declaring that the United States doesn't need recipients he deemed "destructive" and "woke" receiving prestigious American awards. The cancellation sparked considerable online debate, highlighting the increasingly polarized political climate and the ongoing discussions surrounding patriotism and political ideology. Trump's statement, delivered with his characteristically forceful rhetoric, further fueled the controversy. His use of the term "woke" – a term frequently used to criticize progressive viewpoints – emphasizes the political dimension of the decision. The incident raises questions about the evolving relationship between political viewpoints and the bestowal of national honors. The controversy also spotlights the ongoing tension between celebrating figures viewed as cultural icons and the concerns of those who disagree with their perceived political leanings.
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Originally published at: https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/09/08/trump-tom-hanks-west-point-ceremony/
