Staff Reports
Biden’s annual turkey pardon has taken center stage again, but amidst the gobbles and fluff, it’s hard to overlook the underlying message this year: ‘get ready for Trump, 2024 edition.’ President Biden recently exercised his clemency powers on Peach and Blossom, two hefty turkeys weighing in at forty pounds each, fresh from Minnesota. Apparently, these turkeys exhibited an exemplary “temperament” ensuring that they wouldn’t stir up any political drama, unlike certain human politicians.
The usual hustle and fun of the turkey pardon ceremony was mildly dampened this year. Instead of the expected barrage of cheesy jokes and bad puns—think any family Thanksgiving dinner—Biden instead leaned into nostalgia as he hinted at the holiday season being a poignant last hurrah in the White House for him. With Trump gearing up to reclaim his title, it’s clear Biden was aiming for a moment of reflection where he urged attendees to focus on what really matters: families and wholesome values. It’s almost as if he’s preparing for a political exit strategy, while Peach’s squawking provided comic relief. Who knew a turkey could steal the spotlight from a sitting president?
Biden pardons turkeys Peach and Blossom in White House Thanksgiving traditionhttps://t.co/jhJlHi1WzV pic.twitter.com/qrewuIEGCa
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) November 26, 2024
Tradition is a double-edged sword in American politics. While the turkey pardon is a beloved custom dating back to George H.W. Bush’s first official act in 1989, and while some may romanticize its roots back to Abraham Lincoln’s alleged act of mercy, it seems more like a spectacle than a serious sentiment. The whole affair is marred by the fact that in the grand scheme of presidential priorities, turkeys are way down the list—unless they’re meant to distract from all the headlines about Biden’s policies and various blunders. Engaging in such antics while the national debt skyrockets? Classic misdirection.
While Peach and Blossom will reportedly enjoy their days as “agriculture ambassadors” at Farmamerica, one can only wonder why more focus isn’t placed on real-deal agricultural policy instead of this feel-good fluff. Perhaps these turkeys could lend some insight to agribusiness representatives on how to survive a Biden administration that seems more interested in governing through regulations than bolstering the farming community. The folks in Waseca, Minnesota must be scratching their heads over what these “diplomats” will have to say.
Despite its lighthearted appearance, the turkey pardon highlights the deeper narrative of a transitioning administration. With Trump aiming to take back control and an increasing number of Americans wanting to see some common sense in Washington, maybe it’s time for the rescued turkeys to fly the coop and let the real issues take center stage. Thanksgiving should be about family gathering and good food—not a distraction from the realities unfolding in the U.S. The holiday season has always been a time for gratitude, but perhaps it’s time to step away from the presidential charade and remember what it actually means to be grateful for freedom, opportunity, and the promise of American greatness.
