President Joe Biden pardoned the last Thanksgiving turkey on Monday as his presidential term comes to a close, telling Americans he is “eternally grateful.”
Biden upheld the annual tradition by issuing pardons on Peach and Blossom Day ahead of Thanksgiving.
“Peach and Blossom will join the free birds of the United States of America,” Biden said in the announcement, telling the audience that Peach weighs about 41 pounds and loves tater tots.
He joked that Peach's real dream was “to see the Northern Lights.”
“I heard he lives by the law of the motto, keep calm and keep munching. Blossom, on the other hand, weighs 40 pounds,” Biden continued, adding that Blossom “doesn't play foul, just Minnesota nice.” He claimed to live by the motto “.
“They just completed a two-day road trip from Minnesota to Washington,” he continued, describing their journey.
“They were getting along and listening to their favorite music, which apparently included the song 'Livin' on a Prayer.' Everyone, your prayers will be answered today,” he said. spoke before officially announcing the pardon.
“Based on your character and determination to be productive members of society, I hereby pardon Peach and Blossom!” he said to applause.
The turkey will spend the rest of its days at FarAmerica, the Minnesota Agricultural Interpretive Center.
Biden also acknowledged in his speech that this would be the last time he would perform the annual turkey pardon.
“Let me close on a more serious note: This event marks the official start of the holiday season here in Washington,” he said. “This is also the last time I will be here as president during the season to speak and express my gratitude. So let me tell you, it was the honor of my life and I will always be grateful.”
