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Biden, in his final act as President, granted clemency to turkeys as part of a traditional ceremony. Regardless of political beliefs, he expressed gratitude towards the country for allowing him to serve as President.
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President Biden pardoned a pair of turkeys in a traditional White House ceremony, expressing his gratitude for being the commander in chief. He mentioned that during his presidency, he had the privilege of pardoning several turkeys, including Peanut Butter and Jelly, Chocolate and Chip, Liberty and Bell. This year, he granted a pardon to Peach and Blossom based on their behavior and contribution to society. President Biden also noted that this event marks the beginning of the holiday season in Washington and expressed his thanks and gratitude for the opportunity to serve as president.
Written by Zach Montague
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On Monday, President Biden made an appearance that lasted for eight minutes to grant pardons to two Thanksgiving turkeys. He briefly acknowledged the 77-year-old tradition and took a moment to express gratitude to the country.
During the brief speech, a few jokes and clever remarks were made to honor Peach and Blossom, two large birds weighing over 40 pounds each. They were named after Delaware’s peach blossoms, which are the official flower of President Biden’s home state.
The president stood next to Peach, whose loud gobbling noises were captured by the microphone, constantly interrupting Mr. Biden’s speech and causing laughter among the audience.
"The president mentioned that Peach is making a final request," was stated in the conversation.
At the South Lawn of the White House, Mr. Biden shared with the crowd his personal motto of "stay calm and keep on eating," as he named the turkeys he pardoned during his four years in office. He was wearing his iconic aviator sunglasses at the time.
The president adopted a more solemn demeanor to recognize the bittersweet realization that the holiday season signaled the final phase of his presidency, and potentially the conclusion of his career in public service spanning over five decades.
"This will be my final time speaking as your president during this time, and expressing my thanks and appreciation," stated Mr. Biden. "I want to tell you that serving as president has been the greatest honor of my life. I am eternally thankful."
On Monday, the president and first lady planned to continue a tradition by serving food at a holiday gathering with friends, this time with members of the Coast Guard and their families on Staten Island. During this event, President Biden took a moment to remember 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.
Prior to taking photos with Peach, President-elect Donald J. Trump’s upcoming inauguration in two months hinted at a potential disruption of the norms and traditions that Mr. Biden frequently praised during his presidency. Despite the uncertainty in Washington D.C., Mr. Biden delivered a straightforward and nonpartisan message to attendees at the ceremony.
The speaker emphasized the importance of perseverance and resilience in America, stating that giving up is never an option. They encouraged maintaining faith and continuing forward despite challenges.
Zach Montague is a journalist for The New York Times who reports on the U.S. Department of Education, the White House, and federal courts. For further information about Zach Montague, please visit his profile.
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