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President Biden granted clemency to two turkeys as a tradition for the final time in his presidency. Putting political differences aside, he expressed gratitude to the country during the cheerful event for allowing him the chance to serve as president.
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President Biden pardoned two turkeys in a White House ceremony, expressing gratitude for his time as president. He mentioned past turkeys he had pardoned and announced that Peach and Blossom would also be pardoned based on their behavior. Biden also reflected on the holiday season and his time as president, expressing his gratitude for the experience.
Written by Zach Montague
Reporting live from the
President Biden took eight minutes on Monday to pardon two Thanksgiving turkeys, acknowledging the longstanding 77-year-old tradition and expressing gratitude for the country.
During the short speech, only a few jokes and remarks were made to honor Peach and Blossom, two large birds weighing over 40 pounds each, named after Delaware’s peach blossoms, which are the official flower of Mr. Biden’s home state.
The president was speaking next to Peach, whose loud noises were captured by the microphone, often interrupting Mr. Biden’s speech and causing laughter from the audience.
"The president mentioned that Peach is making a final request at this moment," he stated.
Mr. Biden shared with the crowd on the South Lawn of the White House that his motto is to stay calm and keep eating. He was wearing his iconic aviator sunglasses as he listed off the names of the turkeys he pardoned during his time in office.
The president shifted his tone to a more solemn one to recognize the poignant truth that the holidays signaled the final stretch 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 all as your president during this time, and express my thanks and appreciation," mentioned Mr. Biden. "So I want to tell you, it has been a great privilege for me. I am thankful for this experience."
On Monday, the president and the first lady were planning to continue a tradition of serving food at a holiday gathering with friends. This year, they were with members of the Coast Guard and their families in 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 to prioritize our families and what is truly important.
The uncertainty in Washington D.C. was not discussed, but it was clear that President-elect Donald J. Trump’s upcoming inauguration would bring changes to many of the norms and traditions that President Biden valued. Before taking photos with Peach, President Biden left attendees at the ceremony with a straightforward and non-political message.
He expressed that in America, we always persevere and never give up. We continue to move forward and maintain our belief in what we are working towards.
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, click here.
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