Biden Pardons Thanksgiving Turkeys Liberty and Bell in Annual White House Tradition”
Biden Pardons Thanksgiving Turkeys Liberty and Bell in Annual White House Tradition”
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WASHINGTON D.C. (CNN) — In a time-honored White House tradition, President Joe Biden granted clemency to two Thanksgiving turkeys, Liberty and Bell, during the annual turkey pardon ceremony on Monday. The event provided a lighthearted moment of relief amid the myriad global challenges confronting the Biden administration.
On the South Lawn of the White House, President Biden, in a departure from the pressing issues of the day, metaphorically spared the 42.5-pound Liberty and the 42.1-pound Bell. Children of White House staff and Cabinet members, as well as other attendees, laughed and cheered during the ceremony, which featured presidential wit and humor.
“These birds have a new appreciation for the word, ‘Let freedom ring,’” President Biden remarked, adding, “That’s a big bird, man. I’m impressed.” As one of the turkeys flapped on a table, Biden officially pardoned Liberty and Bell, saying, “I hereby pardon Liberty and Bell. Congratulations, birds.”
As Americans prepare to gather around their Thanksgiving tables, there’s good news on the economic front. The average cost of the Thanksgiving feast has decreased by approximately 4.5% compared to last year, according to the American Farm Bureau’s annual survey, offering a welcome reprieve from rampant inflation.
The turkey pardon tradition has a rich history, with rumors dating back to the Lincoln administration. The first documented turkey pardon occurred in 1963, courtesy of John F. Kennedy, but it only gained widespread popularity in 1989 when George H.W. Bush revived the practice.
Liberty and Bell, this year’s turkeys, were born in July and raised by Jennie-O in Willmar, Minnesota. Their journey to Washington included a nearly 20-hour drive in a “makeshift pen” in a stretch Cadillac Escalade, driven by “seasoned individuals” selected for their turkey-handling expertise. The birds were prepared for the ceremony by being exposed to various sounds, such as clapping and music.
After their moment in the spotlight, Liberty and Bell will return to their home state and retire at the University of Minnesota College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resources Sciences. National Turkey Federation Chairman and Jennie-O Turkey Store President, Steve Lykken, assured that the birds would receive the highest level of care and enjoy their well-deserved retirement.
The annual turkey pardon not only brings a touch of humor to the White House holiday season but also serves as a reminder of the historical and entertaining tradition that has endured through the years.
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