: Joe Biden got several standing ovations as he presented the National Medals of Arts and Humanities, including a moment when he referenced the presidential race as he talked about the power of women.

President Joe Biden gave Virginia treasure and hip-hop legend Missy Elliott the National Medal of Arts this week. Why it matters: It's the highest honor that the U.S. government can give an artist. The big picture: The Portsmouth-born singer was among a list of 20 recipients,

President Joe Biden handed out the prestigious arts and humanities awards to 39 recipients including Queen Latifah, Missy Elliott and Selena Quintanilla.