President Donald Trump kept alive the quirky American tradition of pardoning two turkeys at the White House on Nov. 25, ensuring that Gobble and Waddle will survive Thanksgiving dinner.
According to USA Today, the annual event, now in its 78th year, drew reporters, staff, and families to the Rose Garden for a ceremony blending humor, pomp, and a dash of politics.
“Today we continue a time-honored American tradition,” Trump said, before being interrupted by a loud gobble. “Well, that’s a well-trained turkey! See how happy he is?” he joked to the crowd.
Characteristically, the president quickly pivoted to political commentary, poking fun at former President Joe Biden’s autopen for last year’s pardons, calling them “hereby null and void.”
The remarks drew scattered laughter from attendees.
Trump also referenced last year’s pardoned birds, Peach and Blossom, saying, “But I have stopped that journey, and I am officially pardoning them, and they will not be served for Thanksgiving dinner,” eliciting more chuckles.
The turkeys, raised by Travis Pittman of North Carolina under the guidance of National Turkey Federation Chairman and Butterball CEO Jay Jandrain, were named through an online poll conducted by the Office of the First Lady.
Both weighed over 50 pounds, prompting Trump to quip that he had never seen turkeys so large. “Despite their size, Secretary Kennedy has formally certified that these are the first ever MAHA turkeys,” he added.
The ceremony also showcased the newly renovated Rose Garden.
“I hope you like our new beautiful patio,” Trump said. “If this were grass today, you’d be sinking into the mud like they’ve done for many years.”
Gobble and Waddle spent the night prior at the Willard InterContinental Hotel before returning home to North Carolina to live out the rest of their days.
They are part of a specially trained “Presidential Flock,” prepared for the spotlight since hatching in the summer. Trainers ensure the turkeys are comfortable around crowds, bright lights, and loud noises.
The tradition of pardoning Thanksgiving turkeys dates to 1989, when President George H.W. Bush formalized the practice, though presidents have received live turkeys from the National Turkey Federation since 1947.
Since 2001, the event has consistently featured two birds: a primary turkey and its alternate.
Trump’s pardoning ceremony blended the familiar mix of humor, holiday cheer, and political flair, leaving Gobble and Waddle safe from the dinner plate for another year.
