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President Biden granted clemency to turkeys for the final time during his presidency. Putting politics aside, he expressed gratitude to the nation during the playful event for allowing him the chance to serve.
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President Biden pardoned two turkeys in a 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 be pardoned this year based on their behavior and contributions to society. Biden also noted that this event marks the beginning of the holiday season in Washington and thanked the audience for their support during his presidency. He ended by saying it had been an honor to serve as president.
Written by Zach Montague
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President Biden made a brief appearance on Monday to pardon two Thanksgiving turkeys, acknowledging the longstanding tradition that dates back 77 years. He also took a moment to express gratitude for the country.
During a brief speech, a few jokes and witty remarks were made to honor Peach and Blossom, two birds weighing over 40 pounds each, named after Delaware’s peach blossoms, which are the official flower of President Biden’s home state.
The president gave a speech next to Peach, whose loud gobbling could be heard over the microphone, often interrupting Mr. Biden and causing the audience to laugh.
"The president mentioned that Peach is making a final request at this moment," stated the president.
Mr. Biden shared with the crowd on the South Lawn of the White House that he follows the motto "keep calm and gobble on." He also mentioned the names of the turkeys he pardoned during his time in office, all while wearing his characteristic aviator sunglasses.
The president adopted a more somber attitude to recognize the emotional truth that the holiday season symbolized the final days of his presidency, and could potentially signify the conclusion of his career in public service spanning over five decades.
This is the final time I will be speaking as your president during this time, and I want to express my appreciation and thanks," Mr. Biden stated. "I want to tell you that serving as your president has been the greatest honor of my life. I will always be thankful."
On Monday, the president and first lady planned to continue a tradition by serving food at a holiday celebration with friends, including members of the Coast Guard and their families on Staten Island. During this event, President Biden took a moment to acknowledge those who have experienced loss, specifically honoring his late son Beau, who passed away from brain cancer in 2015.
He suggested that we take advantage of this moment to pause from our hectic schedules and prioritize our families.
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 that Mr. Biden cherished during his presidency. Despite the uncertainty in Washington, Mr. Biden delivered a straightforward and nonpartisan message to attendees at the ceremony.
He expressed that in America, perseverance and determination are important values. He emphasized the importance of not giving up and staying committed to one’s beliefs.
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.
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