Trump Pardon Ceremony Highlights Thanksgiving Amid Economic Concerns

Donald Trump presided over the annual Thanksgiving turkey pardon ceremony at the White House on November 21, 2025, granting clemency to a turkey named Gobble while referencing economic issues that have been on the minds of many Americans. The event, which has its roots in the tradition established during the presidency of Abraham Lincoln, was marked by Trump’s characteristic blend of humor and political commentary.

During the ceremony, Trump noted that Gobble was one of the “largest ever” turkeys to receive the annual pardon, allowing him to avoid becoming a Thanksgiving dinner centerpiece. In a humorous twist, he mentioned Gobble’s companion, Waddle, as “missing in action,” leaving the audience to ponder the fate of the other turkey. This year’s ceremony stood out not only for its lighthearted moments but also for the backdrop of ongoing economic challenges facing American families.

As inflation continues to affect consumers, Trump seized the opportunity to highlight perceived achievements of his administration. He proclaimed that “the cost of a turkey is down 33 percent from its Biden-era highs,” and pointed out that “eggs are down 86 percent since March.” He claimed that gasoline prices would soon hover around $2 per gallon, a statement meant to resonate with voters concerned about rising costs.

Despite these assertions, a recent Politico poll revealed that grocery costs remain the top affordability concern for 45 percent of adults surveyed. Housing costs followed closely, with 38 percent of respondents citing anxiety over rents and future ownership, particularly among younger generations. While some retailers, including Walmart, reported a decrease in the average cost of Thanksgiving dinners, the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicated a 2.7 percent rise in food prices year-to-date.

Amid these economic discussions, Trump also shared his views on security issues, claiming that the southern border has experienced “zero” illegal crossings in the past seven months. He took aim at Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, criticizing his handling of crime in Chicago and suggesting that his administration could bring safety to the troubled city.

Trump’s comments included a crude jab at Pritzker’s weight, which sparked mixed reactions. He stated, “I had a little bit of a Pritzker joke. I was going to talk about Pritzker in size, but when I talk about Pritzker, I get angry because he’s not letting us do the job.” This comment, while intended as humor, is notable in a country grappling with a growing obesity epidemic, where nearly four in ten adults are classified as obese.

The atmosphere of the ceremony reflected a broader sense of unease among the American public as the Conference Board reported a significant drop in consumer confidence, falling to 88.7 in November—its lowest level since April. This decline in confidence coincides with the onset of what health experts call the “weight-gain season,” culminating with New Year’s Day festivities.

As Trump approached Gobble to formally deliver the pardon, he remarked, “He looks like a rather violent bird,” before declaring, “Gobble, I just want to tell you that you are unconditionally pardoned.” The turkey responded with a characteristic gobble, eliciting laughter from the audience, including members of Trump’s cabinet, such as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

As the holiday season approaches, an estimated 82 million Americans are expected to travel for Thanksgiving. The Trumps themselves planned to leave a rainy Washington, D.C., for a five-day getaway in Florida, reflecting a moment of respite amid the political and economic challenges that lie ahead. This year’s festivities are set against a backdrop of uncertainty, highlighting the complexities of the Thanksgiving season in 2025.