Prom
Backed by
Biden pardons turkeys for the final time during his presidency, using the light-hearted event as a chance to express gratitude to the country for allowing him to serve.
written record of
President Biden pardoned two turkeys in a traditional White House ceremony, expressing gratitude for his time as commander in chief. He mentioned past turkeys he had pardoned and announced that Peach and Blossom would now join the ranks of free birds in the United States. Biden also mentioned that this event marks the beginning of the holiday season in Washington and reflected on his time as president, expressing his gratitude and honor for serving in the role.
Written by Zach Montague
Reporting live from the
President Biden made a brief appearance on Monday to pardon two Thanksgiving turkeys, acknowledging the long-standing tradition and taking a moment to express gratitude to the nation.
During a brief speech, a few jokes and witty remarks were made to honor two large birds named Peach and Blossom. These birds were named after Delaware’s peach blossoms, which are the official flower of President Biden’s home state.
The president stood next to Peach, a turkey whose loud noises were heard on the microphone, often interrupting Mr. Biden’s speech and causing the audience to laugh.
"The president mentioned that Peach is making a final request in this situation."
Mr. Biden shared with spectators on the South Lawn of the White House that he lives by the saying "stay calm and keep eating," as he listed off the names of the turkeys he pardoned during his four years in office, all while wearing his trademark aviator sunglasses.
The president adopted a more serious demeanor to recognize the bittersweet truth that the holiday season signified the conclusion of his presidency, and potentially the end of his long career in public service spanning over five decades.
"This will be the final time I address you as your president during this period, offering my thanks and appreciation," stated Mr. Biden. "I want to express that it has been the greatest privilege of my life. I am eternally thankful."
On Monday, the president and the first lady were planned to continue a tradition by serving food at a holiday gathering with friends. This year, they celebrated 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 a potential change in the norms and traditions that President Biden frequently praised. Despite the uncertainty in Washington D.C., Biden delivered a straightforward and nonpartisan message to those present at the ceremony.
He expressed that in America, people never give up and always persevere. They continue to move forward and maintain their faith.
Zach Montague is a journalist for the Times who reports on the U.S. Department of Education, the White House, and federal courts. To learn more about Zach Montague, visit his profile.
Prom
Index of the website
Navigation to find information on