President Donald Trump is set to pardon turkeys named ‘Waddle’ and ‘Gobble’ in a White House tradition as Thanksgiving approaches. The turkeys were introduced to the press by White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, who confirmed that Waddle weighs over 50 pounds. Reporters asked the turkey a range of questions, including his views on peace negotiations in Ukraine and the crime he allegedly committed. The National Turkey Federation plans to send the pardoned turkeys to North Carolina State University, where they will serve as ambassadors for the industry.
Other notable holiday traditions include the arrival of the White House Christmas tree, which will be transported from Michigan’s Korson’s Tree Farms. First Lady Melania Trump conducted a poll on X to name the turkeys, resulting in Waddle and Gobble. The tradition of pardoning turkeys dates back decades, with previous pardons including turkeys from Minnesota and other U.S. states. This practice is largely symbolic, though it has generated significant media attention and public interest.