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In his final act as president, Biden granted clemency to turkeys in a traditional gesture. Regardless of political views, the president expressed gratitude to the country for allowing him to serve.
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President Biden granted clemency to two turkeys during a traditional White House ceremony, expressing his gratitude for serving as the commander in chief. He pardoned Peach and Blossom based on their demeanor and dedication to being productive members of society. Biden noted that this event marks the beginning of the holiday season in Washington and his final time speaking as president during this time. He thanked the audience, stating that serving as president has been the greatest honor of his life.
Authored by Zach Montague
Writing from the nation
President Biden made a brief appearance on Monday to grant pardons to two Thanksgiving turkeys, acknowledging the long-standing tradition that dates back 77 years. He also took a moment to express gratitude to the nation.
The brief speech acknowledged two large birds named Peach and Blossom, weighing over 40 pounds each, in honor of Delaware’s peach blossoms, the official flower of President Biden’s home state. The speech contained only a few jokes and witty remarks.
The president was giving a speech next to Peach, a turkey whose loud noises could be heard on the microphone, often interrupting Mr. Biden and causing laughter among the audience.
"The president mentioned that Peach is making a final request at this moment."
Mr. Biden shared with the crowd on the South Lawn of the White House that his personal motto is "stay calm and keep eating." He wore his famous aviator sunglasses while listing off the names of the turkeys he pardoned during his time in office.
The president shifted to a more somber tone to recognize the bittersweet truth that the holiday season signified the nearing conclusion of his presidency, and potentially the conclusion of his career in public service spanning over five decades.
"This will be the final time I address you as your president during this time, and express my thanks and appreciation," stated Mr. Biden. "I want to tell you that serving as president has been the greatest honor of my life, and I will always be thankful."
On Monday, the president and first lady planned to continue their tradition of serving food at a holiday gathering with friends. This year, they were with members of the Coast Guard and their families on Staten Island. During this event, President Biden took a moment to honor those who have lost loved ones, including his son Beau who passed away from brain cancer in 2015.
He suggested that we take a break from our hectic schedules and prioritize our families during this moment.
Before taking photos with Peach, President-elect Donald J. Trump’s upcoming inauguration in two months hinted at potential changes to the norms and traditions celebrated by Mr. Biden during his presidency. Despite the uncertainty in the nation’s capital, he left those at the ceremony with a straightforward and non-political message.
He stated that Americans always persevere and never lose hope, no matter what challenges they may face. They continue moving forward and maintaining their belief in a better future.
Zach Montague is a journalist for the Times who reports on the U.S. Department of Education, the White House, and federal courts. Learn more about Zach Montague.
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