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Biden granted clemency to turkeys as a tradition for the final time during his presidency. Despite political differences, the president took the opportunity during the light-hearted event to express gratitude to the country for allowing him to serve.
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Biden pardons two turkeys in his final act as president, thanking them for their service. He mentions previous turkeys he has pardoned and announces Peach and Blossom as the latest recipients of clemency. He emphasizes the significance of the event as the beginning of the holiday season and expresses gratitude for his time as president.
Authored by Zach Montague
Reporting live from the
President Biden made a brief appearance on Monday to pardon two Thanksgiving turkeys, acknowledging the long-standing 77-year-old tradition and taking a moment to express gratitude to the nation.
The short speech, which contained a few jokes and witty remarks, highlighted Peach and Blossom, two large birds weighing over 40 pounds each, named after Delaware’s peach blossoms, the official flower of President Biden’s home state.
The president stood next to Peach, whose loud noises were heard through the microphone, interrupting Mr. Biden and causing laughter from the audience.
"The president mentioned that Peach is making a final appeal," 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 wore his signature aviator sunglasses as he listed off the names of the turkeys he pardoned during his four years in office.
The president’s demeanor became more serious as he recognized the bittersweet reality that the holiday season signified the nearing conclusion of his presidency, as well as potentially the end of his long career in public service spanning over five decades.
"This is the final time I will be speaking here as your president for this period, expressing my thanks and gratitude," stated Mr. Biden. "I want to tell you that serving as your president has been the greatest honor of my life. I am endlessly thankful."
On Monday, the president and first lady had plans to continue a tradition of serving food at a holiday celebration with friends. This year, they were celebrating with members of the Coast Guard and their families on Staten Island. During this event, President Biden took a moment to acknowledge and honor those who have lost loved ones, specifically mentioning his son Beau who passed away from brain cancer in 2015.
He suggested taking 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 hinted at major changes to the norms and traditions that President Biden valued. Despite the uncertainty in Washington D.C., President Biden left those at the ceremony with a straightforward and nonpartisan message.
He expressed that in America, people never give up and always persevere. He emphasized the importance of continuing to move forward and maintaining faith.
Zach Montague is a journalist from The Times who reports on the activities of the U.S. Department of Education, the White House, and federal courts. You can find out more about Zach Montague by visiting his profile
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