POLITICS

Trump Pardons Turkeys Amidst Partisan Jabs, Rose Garden

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Trump Pardons Turkeys Amidst Partisan Jabs, Rose Garden

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 7

Left 20%

Center 60%

Right 20%

Sources: 7

WASHINGTON, President Donald Trump pardoned two turkeys at the White House Rose Garden on Tuesday, sparing Waddle and Gobble from the Thanksgiving table. He joked about sending the birds to a Salvadoran prison used for migrants and suggested naming them Chuck and Nancy while saying, "I would never pardon those people." He questioned last year's pardons, claiming an autopen was used and asked, "Where's Hunter?" He targeted Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker with a prepared joke he declined to repeat. Scattered laughter followed as cloudy skies and light drizzle fell during the ceremony. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Presidential turkey pardons have informal origins dating to the Lincoln era and evolved over decades.
1989: President George H.W. Bush granted a widely cited 'first official' turkey pardon, reinforcing the tradition.
Last year: President Joe Biden issued ceremonial turkey pardons that President Trump later questioned, alleging use of an autopen.
This week (Tuesday): President Trump held the Rose Garden ceremony, pardoned two turkeys (Waddle and Gobble), and made partisan remarks.
Reporters across national and local outlets published accounts with quotes, audience reactions, and weather details following the event.