President Trump Pardons Gobble and Waddle in Thanksgiving Tradition

President Donald Trump upheld a cherished American custom on November 25, 2025, by pardoning two turkeys, named Gobble and Waddle, during a ceremony at the White House. This annual event, now in its 78th year, took place in the Rose Garden, attracting reporters, staff, and families eager to witness the blend of humor and holiday spirit.

The ceremony began with a light-hearted moment as Trump remarked, “Today we continue a time-honored American tradition,” before a loud gobble interrupted him. “Well, that’s a well-trained turkey! See how happy he is?” he quipped, drawing laughter from the crowd. Trump’s speech quickly transitioned to political commentary, where he humorously criticized former President Joe Biden for using an autopen for last year’s pardons, declaring them “hereby null and void.”

In a nod to the previous year’s birds, Peach and Blossom, Trump stated, “But I have stopped that journey, and I am officially pardoning them, and they will not be served for Thanksgiving dinner.” This comment elicited further amusement from the attendees.

Details of the Ceremony and the Turkeys

The turkeys, weighing over 50 pounds each, were raised by North Carolina farmer Travis Pittman and were part of a specially trained “Presidential Flock.” They were prepared for the spotlight from hatching in the summer, ensuring they were comfortable around crowds, bright lights, and loud noises. The names Gobble and Waddle were chosen through an online poll conducted by the Office of the First Lady. Jay Jandrain, Chairman of the National Turkey Federation and CEO of Butterball, was also present to support the event.

Trump acknowledged the size of the turkeys, joking, “Despite their size, Secretary Kennedy has formally certified that these are the first ever MAHA turkeys.” The MAHA certification indicates that these birds meet a specific set of standards, highlighting their unique status.

The event also showcased the newly renovated Rose Garden, with Trump commenting, “I hope you like our new beautiful patio. If this were grass today, you’d be sinking into the mud like they’ve done for many years.” This remark drew attention to the White House’s recent upgrades.

Gobble and Waddle spent the previous night at the Willard InterContinental Hotel before returning to North Carolina, where they will live out their days peacefully. The tradition of pardoning turkeys traces back to 1989 when President George H.W. Bush formalized the practice. Since 2001, the ceremony has consistently featured two turkeys: a primary and an alternate.

The event was a celebration of humor, holiday cheer, and a touch of political flair, ensuring that Gobble and Waddle would avoid the dinner plate this Thanksgiving. The ceremony highlights the lighthearted nature of a tradition that has become a staple of American culture.

Watch the video from the event below, capturing the spirit of the occasion.