Trump pardons turkeys Gobble and Waddle in annual tradition. See the photos.
Washington D.C. – In a cherished ritual blending solemnity with lightheartedness, President Donald Trump, accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump, officially granted a "full and unconditional pardon" to two fortunate turkeys, "Gobble" and "Waddle," during the annual National Thanksgiving Turkey Presentation. The ceremony, a staple of White House holiday traditions, took place on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, just days before Americans gathered to celebrate Thanksgiving. This act marked one of President Trump’s final official engagements at the White House before departing for his Mar-a-Lago residence to observe the holiday.
The presidential turkey pardon is a unique American tradition, steeped in history, that offers a symbolic reprieve to a pair of birds destined for the Thanksgiving table. While the formal pardon ceremony as we know it today began with President George H.W. Bush in 1989, its roots stretch back much further. Abraham Lincoln is often credited with the first informal pardon when his son Tad pleaded for the life of a Christmas turkey. Later presidents, including Harry Truman, occasionally received turkeys as gifts, though the concept of a formal "pardon" wasn’t consistently applied until the latter half of the 20th century. Over the decades, it has evolved into a highly anticipated and often amusing event, underscoring the nation’s agricultural heritage and the spirit of gratitude.
This year’s feathered honorees, Gobble and Waddle, arrived in the nation’s capital with all the pomp and circumstance befitting future presidential guests. Before their moment in the spotlight, these distinguished turkeys enjoyed a luxurious stay at Washington D.C.’s iconic Willard InterContinental Hotel. Their accommodations, far grander than any barn, included ample space to roam and a dedicated handler to ensure their comfort. The scene of turkeys relaxing in a plush hotel room has become a whimsical pre-ceremony photo opportunity, delighting onlookers and adding to the charm of the tradition. Waddle, in particular, made an early appearance in the White House press briefing room, captivating reporters and White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt’s young son, Nicholas, who looked on with wide-eyed wonder. The images of these birds in such unexpected settings quickly circulated, adding to the festive anticipation.
The main event unfolded in the elegantly redesigned Rose Garden, a project personally overseen and complimented by President Trump during his remarks. The crisp autumn air was filled with anticipation as members of the President’s Cabinet gathered, including Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, Attorney General Pam Bondi, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, all present to witness the quirky yet profound tradition. Their presence underscored the event’s importance, not just as a holiday custom but as a moment of continuity and national character.
President Trump, known for his distinctive style, delivered his remarks with his characteristic blend of humor and political commentary. He officially declared a "full and unconditional pardon" for Gobble, ensuring the bird’s survival beyond the holiday feast. True to form, the President injected a touch of political jest into the proceedings, making a lighthearted remark about some of former President Joe Biden’s controversial pardons. This quip drew chuckles from the audience and served as a reminder of the often-unpredictable nature of presidential addresses. He also took a moment to commend the beauty and restoration of the Rose Garden, expressing his satisfaction with its appearance.
First Lady Melania Trump stood gracefully beside the President, a picture of poise as she observed the ceremony. Her participation, as always, added a touch of elegance to the proceedings. Following the official pardon, the event also became a moment for familial interactions. Vice President JD Vance, accompanied by his wife Usha Vance and their young daughter Mirabel, visited Gobble, allowing their daughter to interact with the now-pardoned turkey. These moments of personal engagement highlight the human side of the White House and the enduring appeal of the Thanksgiving tradition for families across the nation.
The unsung heroes behind Gobble and Waddle are the dedicated farmers who raise them. This year, the honor fell to Travis Pittman of Wayne County, North Carolina, a long-time turkey farmer who supplies birds to Butterball, the nation’s largest turkey producer. For Pittman, selecting the presidential turkeys is a rigorous process, focusing on birds with calm temperaments and friendly dispositions. "This is a dream come true," Pittman shared with CBS News, expressing immense pride in his role. He recounted how Gobble and Waddle stood out from his typical flocks of 19,000 birds, always being the first to approach him each day, displaying a comfort level that made them ideal candidates for the White House spotlight.
Pittman emphasized the critical role his young son, Carter, played in the birds’ upbringing, helping with feeding and interaction. He used this opportunity to shine a light on the demanding nature of farming, particularly the turkey industry. "Most people that are in that industry work countless hours," Pittman stated, urging Americans to reflect on the immense effort that goes into bringing food to their tables. "And not only do they work hours in whether they’re in their flock of birds with turkeys, or if they’re in the farm fields and the tractors and all, they carry this job home at night also. As my wife would say, you really never get away from it." His message resonated, reminding a nation preparing for a feast of the dedication and hard work that underpins its agricultural bounty.
After their brief but memorable stint in the national spotlight, Gobble and Waddle will live out their days in peace, spared from the Thanksgiving feast. Typically, pardoned turkeys are sent to a university or a historical farm where they can enjoy retirement, serving as mascots and ambassadors for their species. Their journey from a North Carolina farm to the White House and then to a peaceful retirement encapsulates the spirit of this unique American tradition.
The 78th annual National Thanksgiving Turkey Presentation, with President Trump at the helm, once again delivered a blend of tradition, humor, and a quiet acknowledgment of the agricultural heartland. It serves as a colorful precursor to a holiday centered on gratitude, family, and the bountiful harvest that nourishes the nation.
Ed O’Keefe contributed to this report.
