U.S. President Donald Trump pardoned two massive white-feathered turkeys — Gobble and Waddle — on Tuesday, continuing one of the White House’s most lighthearted holiday traditions. Both birds, weighing more than 50 pounds (23 kg) each, were raised on a farm in North Carolina and treated to a night at the luxury Willard InterContinental Hotel before their discovery.
Despite the festive atmosphere, Trump used the annual event to deliver a series of political coups, adding to the more than 1,600 pardons he has granted during his current term.
Why were Gobble and Waddle pardoned?
The ceremonial grace has its roots in 1989, when President George HW Bush formally instituted the Thanksgiving ritual. Trump acknowledged that legacy and added his own brand of humor, noting that he originally wanted to rename the turkeys Chuck and Nancy — a nod to Democratic leaders Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi.
“But then I realized I wouldn’t forgive them,” he joked, adding: “I would never forgive those two people.”
The president also took a swipe at his predecessor, claiming without evidence that former President Joe Biden’s pardons for Peach and Blossom were invalid because Biden allegedly “used an automated signing device.” Trump subsequently “re-pardoned” both birds.
Where will the pardoned Turks go?
In keeping with tradition, Gobble and Waddle will retire to the North Carolina State University Faculty of Agriculture. The National Turkey Federation confirmed that both birds would “live out their days” under expert care at the facility.
How does this tradition relate to history?
While the formal ceremony began in the late 20th century, anecdotes trace the earliest presidential reprieve to 1863. Historians note that President Abraham Lincoln believed he had spared a turkey after his young son joined the bird.
Why was Waddle absent from the ceremony?
Social media users raised questions after only Gobble appeared in the rose garden during the live ceremony, sparking speculation about Waddle’s whereabouts. Trump himself acknowledged the absence, telling the crowd:
“Waddle, by the way, is missing in action… We’ll pretend Waddle is here.
Was Waddle really pardoned?
The president of the National Turkey Federation, Leslee Oden, told the BBC that both birds had been officially pardoned. Oden clarified earlier in the day that “they will both be pardoned, Gobble will be the national Thanksgiving turkey, he (Waddle) is the replacement and willing to step in.”
Is Waddle safe?
Indeed, Waddle remains unscathed and has simply assumed his role as an alternate turkey. Both Gobble and Waddle will go to their new home at NCSU, where they will be provided with safety and long-term care.
(With agency input)
