President Biden Pardons The National Thanksgiving Turkey In A Ceremony On The South Lawn

Biden pardons Thanksgiving turkeys: 'No ballot stuffing, no fowl play

President Biden Pardons the National Thanksgiving Turkey

In keeping with an annual tradition, President Joe Biden pardoned two turkeys named "Chocolate" and "Chip" on Monday during a ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House. Chocolate, a 46-pound turkey, and Chip, a 47-pound turkey, were selected from among hundreds of candidates from across the country.

Background

The tradition of pardoning the Thanksgiving turkey dates back to President Abraham Lincoln, who spared a turkey from becoming the main course at his Thanksgiving dinner in 1863. Lincoln's son, Tad, pleaded with the president to save the turkey, which became known as "Mac." Since then, every president has either pardoned or reprieved at least one turkey before Thanksgiving.

Key Facts and Latest Updates

This year, Biden pardoned both Chocolate and Chip, marking the first time that two turkeys had been pardoned in the same year since 2019. Prior to the ceremony, Biden met with the turkeys and their handlers in the Oval Office, where he joked that he was "thankful for the turkey's sense of humor."

Analysis or Impact

The pardoning of the Thanksgiving turkey is a symbolic gesture that highlights the importance of compassion and forgiveness. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of gratitude during the holiday season.

Conclusion

Chocolate and Chip will spend the rest of their lives at Gobblers Rest, a farm sanctuary in Virginia. The turkeys will be joined by Peanuts, the turkey that Biden pardoned last year.

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