Annual Turkey Pardoning Ceremony
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump conducted the annual ceremonial pardoning of two Thanksgiving turkeys at the White House on Tuesday. During the event, he made remarks that included references to political figures and topics.
During the ceremony, President Trump joked about sending the pardoned turkeys to a prison in El Salvador known for housing deported migrants. He suggested naming the birds Chuck and Nancy, referring to Democratic leaders Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi, adding, "I would never pardon those people."
President Trump also stated that last year's turkey pardons, issued by President Joe Biden, were invalid due to the use of an autopen. He then commented, "Where's Hunter?" in reference to Biden's son.
Following these comments, President Trump addressed Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, a Democrat who has opposed the White House's proposals for National Guard deployment in Chicago. Trump mentioned having a joke prepared about Pritzker, stating, "I refuse to talk about the fact that he's a fat slob. I don't mention it." Audience members, gathered in the Rose Garden under cloudy skies and intermittent drizzle, reacted with laughter to these remarks.
The ceremony then proceeded with the pardoning of two turkeys, named Gobble and Waddle, sparing both from being served for Thanksgiving dinner. Gobble received the official spotlight. President Trump formally pardoned Gobble, stating, "Gobble, I just want to tell you this — very important — you are hereby unconditionally pardoned." He then touched the bird and commented, "Who would want to harm this beautiful bird?"
Waddle had been observed earlier in the White House briefing room. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt asked Waddle to "give us a gobble," which the turkey did. Leavitt then remarked, "Very on message!"
Economic and Policy Updates
During his remarks, President Trump asserted that Thanksgiving meal prices were decreasing under his administration. Information available at the time of the event indicated that some holiday dinner costs might be higher, consistent with ongoing discussions regarding inflation.
President Trump was scheduled to travel to his private Florida resort later on Tuesday for a holiday period, occurring during an ongoing phase of his second term.
His administration is working on a plan to conclude the Russian invasion of Ukraine, following an earlier proposal that received criticism from European allies and some Republican members. Separately, the U.S. military is preparing for potential military strikes against Venezuela as part of an anti-drug operation, an action that could affect Venezuela's leadership.
Domestic Political and Legal Developments
In Washington, the Republican coalition is facing potential divisions in anticipation of next year's midterm elections, which will decide control of Congress. Some Republican members recently supported legislation compelling the Justice Department to release additional documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein case.
Earlier in the week, a federal judge dismissed cases against James Comey and Letitia James. Comey, a former FBI director who was dismissed by Trump during his first term, had been charged with making a false statement and obstructing Congress. James, the New York Attorney General who conducted an investigation involving the president between his terms, had been charged with mortgage fraud.
Both individuals pleaded not guilty and stated that the prosecutions were politically motivated, citing President Trump's public statements regarding the Justice Department pursuing actions against those he considered adversaries. The judge's ruling cited that the interim U.S. attorney, previously part of Trump's personal legal team, who obtained the indictments, was unlawfully appointed. The dismissal was made without prejudice, meaning the Justice Department retains the option to refile charges against Comey and James.
White House Holiday Preparations
The White House is scheduled to offer holiday tours. While a Christmas tree arrived via horse-drawn carriage on Monday, changes to the presidential residence are noted for this year. President Trump's decision to dismantle the East Wing to facilitate a new ballroom has resulted in a portion of the White House grounds being designated as a construction site.