President Joe Biden celebrated his birthday by pardoning two turkeys for Thanksgiving. According to the White House Historical Association, after 1981, the practice of sending the presentation turkey to a farm became the norm under President Ronald Reagan. The association highlights that the tradition became a humorous moment for journalists.
"President Biden celebrates the 76th anniversary of the National Thanksgiving Turkey presentation, reflects upon the time-honored traditions of Thanksgiving, and wishes American families a safe and healthy holiday," the White House wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Happening Now: President Biden celebrates the 76th anniversary of the National Thanksgiving Turkey presentation, reflects upon the time-honored traditions of Thanksgiving, and wishes American families a safe and healthy holiday. https://t.co/gehurP2XFL
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) November 20, 2023
Biden kept with tradition by pardoning Liberty, a 42.5-pound turkey, and Bell, 42.1 pounds. "These turkeys have a new appreciation for the words 'let freedom ring,'" the president said during the event.
Pres. Biden introduces Liberty and Bell, the two turkeys named for the iconic Philadelphia structure who will receive this Thanksgiving's presidential pardon.
“These birds have a new appreciation for the words, ‘Let freedom ring.’” https://t.co/F8bF2DPp6E pic.twitter.com/fIta2CQjcT
— ABC News Politics (@ABCPolitics) November 20, 2023
Likewise, the president made jokes about his birthday and said that he was not at the first turkey pardon in history. "I just want you to know that it's difficult turning 60."
President Joe Biden poked fun at his age on his 81st birthday Monday. "It's difficult turning 60," Biden joked during the White House's annual Thanksgiving turkey pardon. pic.twitter.com/4AZlpYM3bE
— Newsweek (@Newsweek) November 20, 2023
Additionally, the president was criticized for abruptly leaving the ceremony. In fact, a video was published in which he is seen running to enter the White House, while the guests were still in the garden celebrating the traditional activity. "Biden abruptly leaves his turkey pardon ceremony and half-jogs back inside," RCN wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Biden abruptly leaves his turkey pardon ceremony and half-jogs back inside pic.twitter.com/uvDHaWuJpN
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) November 20, 2023
