President Trump Pardons Gobble and Waddle in Annual Thanksgiving Tradition

Annual Ceremony Held at White House Rose Garden

President Donald Trump, accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump, participated in the annual Thanksgiving turkey pardoning ceremony at the White House Rose Garden on Tuesday, November 25, 2025. The event saw two North Carolina-bred turkeys, named Gobble and Waddle, receive a presidential pardon, ensuring their reprieve from becoming holiday dinner. This marked the 78th annual National Thanksgiving Turkey Presentation.

The Tradition of the Presidential Pardon

The ceremonial pardoning of a Thanksgiving turkey is a long-standing White House tradition. While informal acts of sparing turkeys date back to President Abraham Lincoln, who reportedly pardoned a turkey at his son Tad's request, the modern, official annual tradition was formally established by President George H.W. Bush in 1989. Each year, the National Turkey Federation presents the President with a live domestic turkey, typically a male of the Broad Breasted White variety.

Gobble and Waddle: This Year's Honorees

The two fortunate turkeys, Gobble and Waddle, hailed from North Carolina and were raised by Travis Pittman. Before their appearance at the White House, the birds enjoyed a luxurious stay at the Willard InterContinental Hotel in Washington, D.C. During the ceremony, President Trump granted Gobble a 'full and unconditional pardon,' with Waddle also being spared. Following the ceremony, both turkeys are expected to retire to a comfortable life back in North Carolina.

President's Remarks and Political Jabs

During the event, President Trump delivered remarks that included his characteristic humor and political commentary. He joked about potentially naming the turkeys 'Chuck and Nancy'—referring to Democratic leaders Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi—but stated, 'I would never pardon those two people.' He also made light of previous turkey pardons, claiming that last year's pardon by President Joe Biden was invalid due to the use of an autopen. The President used the occasion to discuss economic points and other political topics.