Kimmel Takes Aim at Thanksgiving Turkey Pardon

Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel recently criticized President Donald Trump’s administration during the Thanksgiving turkey pardon ceremony, humorously suggesting that “fascists enjoy it too.” On his show this Tuesday, he spotlighted the two pardoned turkeys, Gobble and Waddle.

“These are saved birds,” Kimmel remarked. “Their names are Gobble and Waddle. Kind of like what Trump does every night at dinner — gobble and waddle.” The comedian then aired a clip of Waddle being introduced in the White House press briefing room by Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt, who was holding her young son.

“Hello Mr. Waddle, he’s a beautiful bird,” Leavitt greeted the turkey. Following that, a representative from the National Turkish Federation playfully asked, “Do you want a gulp?”

Kimmel quipped back, “See? Fascists are having fun too. It’s fun,” after Waddle’s reaction to the question.

His comment labeling the Trump administration as “fascist” stirred backlash from conservative outlets. One media analyst, Alex Christie, mentioned, “There was some non-political fun at the White House on Tuesday… unfortunately, ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel had to ruin it by responding, ‘See? Fascists are having fun, too.'” Kimmel and Trump have a contentious history, as Trump has called for Kimmel’s firing on multiple occasions, while Kimmel has consistently critiqued the president and his policies.

While this year’s turkey pardon ceremony did bring some light-hearted moments, Kimmel’s jokes definitely added a layer of political commentary that didn’t sit well with everyone.