Full Breakdown
President Trump Pardons Thanksgiving Turkeys Amid Controversy
11/25/2025, 11:20:40 PM
Annual Tradition and Ceremony Details
On November 25, 2025, President Donald Trump hosted the annual Thanksgiving turkey pardon at the White House, continuing a tradition that dates back to 1989. This year, the turkeys named Gobble and Waddle were spared from being served at Thanksgiving dinner. Following the ceremony, both birds will reside at the Prestage Department of Poultry Science at North Carolina State University, where they will receive care and veterinary services.
Controversial Remarks and Re-Pardoning
During the ceremony, Trump humorously declared that he was re-pardoning last year's turkeys, Peach and Blossom, which he claimed had received invalid pardons from President Joe Biden due to the use of an autopen. Trump stated, “I have determined that last year’s turkey pardons are totally invalid,” and added that he had located the turkeys, who were “on their way to be processed.” He emphasized that he had intervened to ensure their safety, joking about the investigation into Biden's pardons.
Jokes and Political Commentary
Trump's remarks during the ceremony included jokes about naming the turkeys after Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, stating, “I would never pardon those two people.” He also made comments about Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, referring to him in derogatory terms while discussing crime in Chicago. His speech included a mix of humor and political commentary, reflecting his ongoing critique of Democratic leadership.
Official Statements and Responses
The White House characterized the turkey pardon as a lighthearted event, with the Office of the First Lady noting that the names Gobble and Waddle were chosen through an online poll. The tradition of pardoning turkeys has evolved over the years, with the first official pardon occurring under President George H.W. Bush. The event serves not only as a Thanksgiving ritual but also as a platform for the president to engage with the public in a festive manner.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of Trump's remarks pointed out that his comments about Biden's pardons were unfounded and reflected a broader pattern of political attacks rather than a focus on the ceremonial nature of the event. Some observers noted that the turkey pardon, traditionally a nonpartisan occasion, was overshadowed by Trump's political jabs.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I have determined that last year’s turkey pardons are totally invalid.” — President Donald Trump
- “These are two of the largest turkeys ever presented to an American president, over 50lbs each, that’s the largest we’ve ever had.” — President Donald Trump
- “I would never pardon those people,” — President Donald Trump
In summary, the 2025 Thanksgiving turkey pardon ceremony was marked by humor, political commentary, and a reaffirmation of a long-standing presidential tradition, despite the controversy surrounding the validity of previous pardons.
