U.S. Senator Ted Cruz has urged President Donald Trump to award the renowned African-American economist and prominent figure in the black conservative movement Thomas Sowell the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Mr Cruz made this plea to Mr Trump with his “this is a very good idea” response to a post by popular black conservative figure Larry Elder, calling on the U.S. president to bestow the highest civilian award on Mr Sowell, 94, while he is still alive.

“The Great Thomas Sowell is 94. There is still time for President Trump to award Professor Sowell the Presidential Medal of Freedom!!!” Mr Cruz said in the post.

Mr Sowell was a prominent figure in the conservative movement during the era of former President Ronald Reagan. He was offered a chance to serve in multiple roles in his administration, including the Secretary of Education, but he declined.

He also published commentary and books on politics, economics, education and race. His work influenced other black conservatives figures, including U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas and economist Walter Williams.