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President Biden chose to pardon turkeys one final time before the end of his presidency. Despite any political undertones, he took the chance during the light-hearted event to express gratitude to the country for allowing him the opportunity to serve as president.
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President Biden pardoned two turkeys in a traditional White House ceremony, expressing his gratitude for being the commander in chief. He mentioned that over the past four years, he has pardoned other turkeys named Peanut Butter, Jelly, Chocolate, Chip, Liberty, and Bell. This year, he pardoned Peach and Blossom based on their good behavior and contribution to society. He also mentioned that this event signals the start of the holiday season in Washington and that it is his last time speaking as president during this time. He expressed his gratitude and said it has been an honor to serve as president.
Written by Zach Montague
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President Biden made an appearance for eight minutes on Monday to grant pardons to two Thanksgiving turkeys. He briefly acknowledged the 77-year-old tradition and took a moment to express gratitude to the nation.
The brief speech acknowledged two large birds named Peach and Blossom, weighing over 40 pounds each, in honor of Delaware’s peach blossoms, which are the official flower of President Biden’s home state.
During the speech, the president stood next to Peach, a turkey whose loud noises were heard on the microphone, often interrupting Mr. Biden and causing the audience to laugh.
"The president mentioned that Peach is making a plea at the last minute," expressed the president.
During an event on the South Lawn of the White House, Mr. Biden shared that his motto is to "stay calm and keep eating," as he listed the names of the turkeys he has pardoned over the past four years, all while wearing his iconic aviator sunglasses.
The president changed his tone to a more solemn one, recognizing the bittersweet reality that the holidays signified the conclusion of his presidency and potentially 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 period, and I want to express my appreciation and thanks," stated Mr. Biden. He continued by saying that serving as president has been the greatest honor of his life and that he 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 time 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, specifically mentioning his son Beau who passed away from brain cancer in 2015.
He suggested that we should take a break from our hectic schedules and prioritize our families during this moment.
Before taking photos with Peach, President-elect Donald J. Trump’s upcoming inauguration in two months hinted at changes to the norms and traditions that President Biden valued. Despite the uncertainty in Washington, Mr. Biden shared a straightforward and nonpartisan message with attendees at the ceremony.
He expressed that in America, we always persevere and never give up. We continue moving forward and hold onto our beliefs.
Zach Montague is a journalist for The Times who reports on the U.S. Department of Education, the White House, and federal courts. Learn more about Zach Montague.
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