Perhaps the complaint is that awarding an honor to a political candidate in the midst of a campaign, might create the impression that the CF folks are in some sense endorsing him?
I suspect that's something along the lines of the real explanation ... if so, it's not quite so smelly as you're trying to paint it. CF and other such organizations have to be very careful of their public image.
it never stops other organizations from conveniently honoring some ratfink right in the middle or just before campaign season.....and for sure the oprahs of the world seem to have a knack on featuring politicos and their spouses just at the opportune time....
rats.....thru and thru...