U.S. Presidents Pardoning Turkeys Throughout History
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Turkey pardoning is a tradition as American as apple pie. As families nationwide gear up for Thanksgiving, U.S. Presidents have long taken part in the ceremonial granting of clemency to select fortunate birds. Dating back to Abraham Lincoln, this tradition has seen various Presidents posing with grateful turkeys over the years. From Purdue Pete to Flyer to Peach and Blossom, here is a look at U.S. Presidents alongside the turkeys they’ve pardoned.
The tradition of ‘pardoning’ a turkey dates back to Abraham Lincoln. While poultry dealers had been sending birds to the White House for years prior to that, it was Lincoln who supposedly granted a turkey clemency in 1863, though there are disputes on when the tradition officially began. Harry S. Truman and Dwight D. Eisenhower were both involved in the tradition, with Eisenhower famously posing with a turkey as he fed it cranberries during his presidency.
John F. Kennedy made use of the terms “pardon” and “reprieve” when discussing his turkey in 1963. Following Kennedy’s assassination, Lyndon B. Johnson continued the tradition, as seen in a photo op where he was presented with a turkey by Sen. Everett Dirksen and representatives of the poultry industry. Richard Nixon’s encounter with a turkey, though possibly exaggerated, involved a story where the bird’s feet had to be nailed down during a photo session.
Gerald Ford’s involvement in turkey pardoning led to a picture where he was accompanied by a live turkey, though it remains unclear whether it was intended for eating or decoration. Jimmy Carter’s wife, Rosalynn, and daughter, Amy, participated in the tradition by meeting with “Purdue Pete” at the White House in 1978. Ronald Reagan, known for his charisma, is credited with making turkey pardoning an official act during his presidency.
George H.W. Bush’s humorous comment of “reprieve” during a turkey pardoning ceremony in 1989 brought some light-heartedness to the event. Bill Clinton named his turkey “Jerry,” possibly as a nod to the popular TV show “Seinfeld.” George W. Bush’s bird, named “Flyer,” appeared less than enthusiastic in the photo op, earning comparisons to a grumpy demeanor.
Barack Obama involved his daughters Sasha and Malia in the turkey pardoning process during his time in office, making it a family affair. In 2012, Obama pardoned a 42-lb. turkey named Abe, drawing connections to the tradition’s origins with Lincoln. In 2021 and 2022, President Joe Biden continued the tradition by granting clemency to turkeys Peanut Butter and Jelly, followed by Chocolate and Chip.
In 2023, President Biden pardoned turkeys Liberty and Bell, celebrating the 76th anniversary of the event with a touch of humour. The 2024 ceremony saw Biden granting clemency to turkeys Peach and Blossom as his final Thanksgiving act as President. In 2025, former President Donald Trump returned to the tradition, pardoning turkeys Gobble and Waddle in a ceremony at the Rose Garden, keeping the legacy of turkey pardoning alive.
The tradition of turkey pardoning showcases a whimsical and light-hearted side of American presidential history. It’s a unique custom that bridges the gap between formality and festivity, providing a glimpse into the personal lives of U.S. Presidents. As each President puts their spin on the tradition, the annual event continues to capture the imagination of the public and add a touch of charm to the Thanksgiving season.