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As his presidency comes to an end, Biden pardoned turkeys in a symbolic gesture of gratitude towards the nation for giving him the chance to serve. The event was a light-hearted ceremony that focused on appreciation rather than politics.
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President Biden pardoned two turkeys in a traditional White House ceremony and expressed his gratitude for serving as the country’s leader. He mentioned that during his time as president, he has had the privilege of pardoning other turkeys named Peanut Butter and Jelly, Chocolate and Chip, Liberty and Bell. This year, he pardoned Peach and Blossom based on their good behavior and contribution to society. Biden also noted that the event marks the beginning of the holiday season in Washington and expressed his thanks and appreciation for his time as president. He ended by saying it has been the greatest honor of his life and he is thankful.
Written by Zach Montague
Writing from the capital
President Biden made a brief appearance on Monday to pardon two Thanksgiving turkeys, continuing a tradition that has been in place for 77 years. He took a moment to reflect and express gratitude to the country.
The brief speech, containing only a few jokes and witty remarks, honored 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 gave a speech next to Peach, a turkey whose noises were heard on the microphone, often interrupting Mr. Biden’s speech and causing laughter among the audience.
"The president mentioned that Peach is making a final request at this moment," was the statement made.
Mr. Biden shared with the crowd on the South Lawn of the White House that his motto is to stay calm and eat plenty, while also mentioning the names of the turkeys he spared during his time in office. He was wearing his usual aviator sunglasses during the event.
The president shifted to a more solemn demeanor to recognize the bittersweet truth that the holiday season signaled the final stretch of his presidency, and potentially the conclusion of his decades-long career in public service.
"This will be my final opportunity to address you as your president during this time, and express my appreciation and thanks," stated Mr. Biden. "I want to tell you that serving as president has been the greatest privilege of my life. I will always be thankful."
On Monday, the president and the first lady planned to continue their tradition of 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 should take a break from our hectic schedules to prioritize our families in this moment.
Before taking photos with Peach, President-elect Donald J. Trump’s upcoming inauguration in two months suggested a potential disruption of the norms and traditions often praised by President Biden. Despite the uncertainty in the capital, President Biden left attendees with a straightforward and non-political message at the ceremony.
He expressed the sentiment that in America, people always persevere and never give up. The idea is to continue moving forward and maintain hope.
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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