Donald Trump offers political satire in Thanksgiving turkey pardon video
President Donald Trump spared the lives of two turkeys this year at the traditional Thanksgiving pardon. He also provided good old political satire while giving his speech.
According to the Time, Peas, 39 pounds, and Carrots, 41 pounds, were the two lucky birds this year. Raised on a Huron farm in South Dakota, they will get to live out their days on a Virginia farm named "Gobbler's Rest."
The tradition began in 1863 with President Abraham Lincoln. In 1989, former president George W. Bush bowed to animal rights activists. "This fine tom turkey" will not become a meal he said.
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Yesterday, the president was joined by his wife Melania Trump on the White House lawn. Missing from the picture was their son, Barron, 12, who was present at last year's pardon.
Trump said: “That turkey is so lucky. I’ve never seen such a beautiful turkey."
Without the presence of any children, the event seemed a little lackluster. The kids usually take center stage for the pardoning.
Still, attendees included a few Republican senators whom the president commended for their wins at the recent elections.
The president also thanked "the men and women who protect our families and who protect our flag." Further, he expressed empathy towards "those battling the California wildfires."
Then Trump attempted to be light-hearted after announcing that Peas had won the public vote through the White House website. Carrots, on the other hand, was deemed the alternative turkey.
"This was a fair election. Unfortunately, Carrots refused to concede and demanded a recount. We're still fighting with Carrots."
Trump was referencing the recount requested by African American Stacey Abrams. The Georgian candidate alleged voter suppression last election.
Trump continued:
“And I will tell you we’ve come to a conclusion: Carrots, I’m sorry to tell you the result did not change. It’s too bad for Carrots.”
Trump then took his humor to a larger scale saying:
“However. Even though Peas and Carrots have received a presidential pardon, I have warned them that House Democrats are likely to issue them both subpoenas.”
The audience's laughter dwindled as Trump went on:
“Unfortunately, I can’t guarantee that your pardons won’t be enjoined by the ninth circuit. Always happens. They’re guaranteed."
Trump was talking about the ninth circuit court of appeals which has stopped the current administration from going through with many actions. Most recently, they blocked the pushed to stop the Daca programme.
When the satirical-laden speech was done, Trump and his wife walked over to the turkeys to carry out the traditional task. Trump, arm extended, said:
“Peas, I hereby grant you a full pardon!”
Just yesterday, Trump again humored an audience, this time online, when he and Melania received the official White House Christmas Tree. A horse-drawn carriage came up to the North Portico.
The president and the first lady then circled the tree before Trump came right up and patted one of the horse's rump. With that, the jokes came rolling in on Twitter.
Although most of them were at the President's expense, it certainly looks like the season will have a jolly atmosphere despite political controversies.