The annual turkey pardon ceremony of the US President was held at the White House on Tuesday (November 24), with President Trump, accompanied by First Lady Melania and various officials and dignitaries, pardoning two lucky turkeys, sparing them from becoming the holiday feast.
In his speech at the turkey pardon ceremony, Trump announced that this year, the two turkeys selected for pardon were named “Waddle” and “Gobble”.
He said, “On behalf of the First Lady and the entire Trump family, I wish all Americans a happy Thanksgiving.”
The President also stated that these were the two largest turkeys ever presented to a US President so far – each weighing over 50 pounds. The turkeys were massive in size, with Health Secretary Kennedy officially confirming them as the first batch of MAHA turkeys in history.
To one of the turkeys, Trump said, “‘Gobble’, I just want to tell you one thing – very important – you are unconditionally pardoned here!”
“We thank God for the many blessings we have received, as well as the tremendous achievements this country has made in a short time. We draw strength from the love of family and friends, and express our eternal gratitude to the men and women of the United States Armed Forces,” he said.
Officials from the Trump administration attended the turkey pardon ceremony on Tuesday. Vice President Pence was seen holding his young daughter, while White House spokesperson Levitt was holding his son present at the event.
Before the pardon ceremony, one of the turkeys to be pardoned, “Waddle”, “visited” the White House press room. Levitt’s son Nicholas and the visiting “special guest” happily interacted.
The President’s turkey pardon ceremony is an annual tradition during Thanksgiving. As per tradition, the President selects two turkeys from an American farm, granting them official pardon to spare them from being a traditional delicacy on the dinner table.
Prior to naming the turkeys “Waddle” and “Gobble”, the First Lady’s office invited the public to participate in the naming process through a vote on the social media account @FirstLadyOffice.
This article was originally published in Dajiyuan on November 26, 2025.