The President of the United States engages in a unique and widely recognized annual tradition involving turkeys: the ceremonial "pardon."
The Presidential Turkey Pardon Tradition
Each year, typically just before Thanksgiving, the President participates in the National Thanksgiving Turkey Presentation. This long-standing tradition involves the President accepting a turkey from the National Turkey Federation (NTF) and then issuing a symbolic act of clemency.
The practice of officially "pardoning" a turkey became a firm tradition during the presidency of George H. W. Bush. Since then, every succeeding president has continued this unique and lighthearted ceremony, making it a staple of the holiday season in Washington, D.C. The act is purely ceremonial, ensuring the turkey is spared from becoming a holiday meal.
How are the Turkeys Selected?
The turkeys chosen for this special event are not just any turkeys. They are carefully selected, reflecting a specific process:
- Origin: The turkeys typically hail from the home state of the current chairperson of the National Turkey Federation.
- Farm Connection: On occasion, the honored turkeys may even come directly from the chairperson's own farm, adding a personal touch to the national event.
This selection process highlights the collaboration between the White House and the poultry industry, specifically the National Turkey Federation, which has presented turkeys to presidents for decades.
Key Aspects of the Turkey Presentation
The table below summarizes the core elements of this distinctive presidential tradition:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin of Pardon | Formally established as a regular tradition during the presidency of George H. W. Bush. |
| Presidential Action | Issues a ceremonial "pardon" to the turkey, sparing it from consumption. |
| Continuity | Carried on by all presidents who have succeeded George H. W. Bush, making it an enduring custom. |
| Turkey Sourcing | Turkeys are traditionally selected from the home state of the current National Turkey Federation (NTF) chairperson, sometimes from their personal farm. |
After their moment in the national spotlight and receiving their pardon, these turkeys typically live out their days in specially designated farms or facilities, often becoming attractions themselves.
