Austin, TX, November 26, 2025
In a light-hearted ceremony in the Rose Garden, President Trump pardoned two turkeys named Gobble and Waddle, reflecting an annual Thanksgiving tradition. The president made humorous remarks referencing political figures and re-pardoned two previously pardoned turkeys, Peach and Blossom. This event not only highlights the playful side of politics but also supports agricultural education as the turkeys will live out their days at North Carolina State University. The ceremony serves as a reminder of unity and tradition during the Thanksgiving holiday.
President Trump Pardons Thanksgiving Turkeys Gobble and Waddle
A lighthearted annual tradition punctuated by political jabs
Austin, TX – On November 25, 2025, President Donald Trump upheld the long-standing White House Thanksgiving tradition by pardoning two turkeys named Gobble and Waddle. The ceremony took place in the Rose Garden, where President Trump added a touch of humor, revealing he initially considered naming the turkeys “Chuck and Nancy,” referencing Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Ultimately, he settled on the more festive names.
Gobble and Waddle, impressive birds weighing 52 and 50 pounds respectively, were raised in North Carolina. Following the ceremony, both turkeys will reside at North Carolina State University’s agricultural college, living out their days away from becoming a holiday meal. This annual act of clemency highlights not just a light-hearted moment in the political sphere but also the enduring American tradition of Thanksgiving.
The Tradition of the Presidential Turkey Pardon
The presidential turkey pardon has a rich history, dating back to the 1940s. The formal practice began in 1989 during President George H.W. Bush’s administration. Since then, each president has participated in this whimsical event, adding a personal touch that often includes light-hearted banter and political commentary. The combination of holiday cheer and political discourse serves to unite Americans, even amidst partisan divides.
Re-pardoned Turkeys and Political Banter
In an unusual twist, President Trump re-pardoned two turkeys named Peach and Blossom, which had previously received pardons under President Joe Biden. Trump claimed that Biden’s use of an automated signature device, known as an autopen, invalidated those pardons. He described how these turkeys were “on their way to be processed” before his intervention ensured their safety, sparking discussions about the weight of formalities in political practice.
This year’s ceremony also saw President Trump indulge in political jabs, including comments aimed at Democrats Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi, and jokes about sending the turkeys to a prison in El Salvador. His remarks about the validity of previous pardons and a critique of Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker showcased how the ceremony straddles the line between celebration and political commentary.
Community and Economic Implications
Beyond the ceremony’s entertainment value, it acts as a reminder of the community around agriculture and local poultry farming. The turkeys were raised in North Carolina, reflecting the region’s agricultural prowess. By sending the pardoned birds to North Carolina State University, this event not only spares the turkeys’ lives but also supports agricultural education and local farming communities.
The Broader Context of Thanksgiving
This annual tradition coincides with Thanksgiving celebrations across the nation, emphasizing themes of gratitude, family, and community. As families gather around dinner tables, the turkey pardon serves as a reminder of the lighter side of political life, encouraging a moment of pause to reflect on the significance of the holiday.
Conclusion: Embracing Tradition and Light-Heartedness
The presidential turkey pardon remains an engaging blend of tradition and humor, reflecting the American spirit. As Austin residents and others across Texas celebrate Thanksgiving, the stories of Gobble, Waddle, Peach, and Blossom symbolize resilience in our communities. As we enjoy the festivities, let us support local businesses and cherish the values that bring us together, fostering economic growth in our neighborhoods.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the presidential turkey pardon?
The presidential turkey pardon is an annual tradition where the President of the United States spares a turkey from becoming part of the Thanksgiving meal. This practice dates back to the 1940s, with the formal pardoning beginning in 1989 during President George H.W. Bush’s administration.
Who were the turkeys pardoned this year?
This year, President Donald Trump pardoned two turkeys named Gobble and Waddle. Both were raised in North Carolina and are slated to live out their days at North Carolina State University’s agricultural college.
Why did President Trump re-pardon Peach and Blossom?
President Trump re-pardoned Peach and Blossom, turkeys previously pardoned by former President Joe Biden, claiming that Biden’s use of an automated signature device, known as an autopen, invalidated those pardons. Trump stated that he intervened to officially pardon them, ensuring they would not be served for Thanksgiving dinner.
What political remarks did President Trump make during the ceremony?
During the ceremony, President Trump mocked Democrats Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi, joked about sending the turkeys to a prison in El Salvador, and criticized Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker. He also suggested that previous turkey pardons were invalid due to the use of an autopen by former President Biden.
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location of Ceremony | Rose Garden, White House, Washington, D.C. |
| Turkeys Pardoned | Gobble (52 pounds) and Waddle (50 pounds), raised in North Carolina |
| Re-pardoned Turkeys | Peach and Blossom, previously pardoned by former President Joe Biden |
| President’s Remarks | Mocked Democrats Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi, joked about sending turkeys to a prison in El Salvador, criticized Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, and suggested previous pardons were invalid due to the use of an autopen by former President Biden |
| Future Residence of Pardoned Turkeys | North Carolina State University’s agricultural college |
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