President Trump transformed the traditionally lighthearted White House turkey pardon into a political roast, leaving no Democrat leader unscathed.
From Tradition to Political Theater
The annual White House turkey pardon represents one of America’s quirkiest presidential traditions, dating back decades as a moment of bipartisan levity before Thanksgiving. Trump decided this year’s ceremony needed more seasoning than just the traditional presidential humor. The event, typically reserved for family-friendly jokes and gratitude, became another venue for settling political scores with his favorite Democrat targets.
President Trump is ending the careers of Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi at the annual turkey pardoning 🤣🤣
"The turkeys being pardoned today go by the names Gobble and Waddle. When I first saw their pictures, I was going to call them Chuck and Nancy, but then I realized I would… pic.twitter.com/DJtrJSu2XN
— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) November 25, 2025
Naming Rights and Political Spite
Trump’s suggestion to name the pardoned turkeys after Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi reveals his continued obsession with the Democrat leaders who impeached him twice during his first term. The joke, while generating laughs from supporters, demonstrates how Trump cannot resist turning even the most apolitical moments into opportunities for political combat. His ability to weaponize a turkey pardon shows either masterful political instincts or an inability to separate governance from grievance.
Questioning Biden’s Presidential Powers
The more serious allegation emerged when Trump claimed Biden’s 2024 pardons were invalid, though he offered no legal basis for the claim.
Presidential pardon power, established in the Constitution, remains nearly absolute and has withstood centuries of legal challenges. Trump’s claim appears to stem from his broader narrative that Biden’s presidency lacks legitimacy, a theme he has maintained since leaving office in 2021.
Legal experts would likely dismiss Trump’s pardon claims as political theater rather than constitutional analysis. The President’s pardon power, outlined in Article II, Section 2 of the Constitution, grants broad authority to forgive federal crimes with very limited exceptions. Biden’s pardons, regardless of their political wisdom, carry the same legal weight as any president’s clemency decisions throughout American history.
“Gobble, I just want to tell you, it’s very important — you are hereby, unconditionally pardoned.”
President Trump participated in the annual turkey pardoning ceremony at the White House. https://t.co/1Ms10R0R3N pic.twitter.com/rY5UgfkYur
— ABC News (@ABC) November 25, 2025
The Art of Presidential Messaging
Trump’s approach to the turkey pardon illustrates the unique communication style that helped him win back the White House. Where other presidents might stick to safe, scripted remarks about gratitude and tradition, Trump sees every public appearance as an opportunity to advance his political narrative. His supporters appreciate this authenticity and willingness to fight, even during ceremonial events.
Critics argue that Trump’s inability to observe traditional presidential decorum diminishes the office and polarizes moments meant to unite Americans. However, Trump’s base sees his willingness to call out political opponents at every opportunity as refreshing honesty in a town known for false pleasantries. The turkey pardon perfectly encapsulates this divide in American political expectations.