Trump Pardons Turkeys Gobble and Waddle, Mocks Biden’s Method

President Donald Trump officially pardoned two turkeys named Gobble and Waddle during a ceremony held outside the White House on November 21, 2023. This annual tradition, which symbolizes forgiveness and goodwill ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday, featured a light-hearted atmosphere, with Trump making jokes about the pardoning process of his predecessor, Joe Biden.

During the event in the Rose Garden, Trump quipped that Biden’s turkey pardons were rendered invalid due to the former president’s use of an autopen to sign the official documents. “I don’t think that counts,” he stated, eliciting laughter from the audience. Gobble, the more vocal of the two turkeys, added to the joviality by gobbling frequently throughout the ceremony, while Waddle was humorously described as “missing in action.”

The tradition of pardoning a turkey dates back to the mid-20th century and has become a staple of the American Thanksgiving celebration. While the event often includes humorous anecdotes and light banter, Trump’s comments brought a political twist to the proceedings this year.

Trump’s ceremony reflects an ongoing rivalry between the two political figures, with the turkey pardoning serving as a light-hearted backdrop for more serious discussions surrounding their respective administrations.

As the event concluded, Trump encouraged attendees to enjoy the upcoming holiday, emphasizing the importance of family and gratitude during this season. The ceremony is typically attended by members of the press, family guests, and White House staff, all of whom participate in the festive atmosphere.

In a tradition that continues to attract attention, the pardoning of Gobble and Waddle serves not only as a quirky celebration but also as a moment for political commentary. While the turkeys will escape the fate of the dinner table, the event also highlights the seasonal spirit of Thanksgiving, a time for Americans to come together in celebration and reflection.

This year’s ceremony was marked by a blend of tradition and contemporary political humor, showcasing how such events can resonate with the public’s interest in both holiday festivities and political discourse.