7 Fact About Trump's Thanksgiving Pardon on Turkeys: Gobble, Waddle.

1. What happened at the 2025 turkey pardon?

President Trump pardoned two turkeys named Gobble and Waddle, giving them a “full and unconditional pardon.” The tradition means the birds will not be eaten for Thanksgiving. It is a long-running White House event held each year. This act highlights a light-hearted holiday moment at the White House. The decision also added to Trump’s already large list of over 1,600 pardons this term.

2. Where did the turkeys come from, and where do they go now?

Both turkeys were raised on a farm in North Carolina. Before the ceremony, the turkeys were flown to Washington, D.C., and given a luxurious stay. They spent the night in comfortable rooms at the upscale Willard InterContinental Hotel near the White House. After the pardon, they return to North Carolina State University to live with animal experts. This keeps them comfortable for the rest of their lives.

3. How did the names Gobble and Waddle get chosen?

The public voted for the names online. Gobble was the main turkey, and Waddle was the backup. Waddle skipped the Rose Garden event but still got the pardon. Funny names make the ceremony more enjoyable for families watching on TV.

4. Why do presidents pardon turkeys every year?

The modern tradition began in 1989 under President George H.W. Bush. Earlier presidents like John F. Kennedy and Ronald Reagan also spared turkeys, but not every year. The ceremony celebrates the holiday spirit in a fun and symbolic way. Because it happens each November, it has become a familiar national event. It also gives the White House a chance to show a softer side during a busy political season.

5. How did President Trump make the event political?

President Trump used the lighthearted ceremony to publicly criticize some of his Democratic political opponents. He joked that he first wanted to rename the birds Chuck and Nancy, referring to Senator Chuck Schumer and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. He then said he would "never pardon those two people," turning the event into an attack on the Democratic leaders. This shows how presidents often mix tradition with political commentary.

6. What did Trump say about the cost of the Thanksgiving meal?

Trump claimed the holiday meal would be cheaper this year. He cited a Walmart study showing a 25% drop in cost. A separate American Farm Bureau survey showed a smaller 5% drop to $55.18.
These numbers matter because cost-of-living concerns are big ahead of the midterm elections. The comments were meant to show economic progress during his administration.

7. Who attended the ceremony, and why does that matter?

Melania Trump joined the president in the Rose Garden.
Cabinet members, including the Secretary of Commerce and Attorney General, were also in the crowd.
Vice President JD Vance and his family visited Gobble afterwards.
These appearances show unity within the administration during public events.
They also reflect the ceremony’s role as a major White House tradition.