Donald Trump carries on the Thanksgiving tradition of pardoning turkeys while adding his characteristic flair to the proceedings.

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, Donald Trump participated in the annual turkey pardoning event at the White House, a tradition that goes back to Abraham Lincoln. During his presidency, George H.W. Bush established the practice as an official annual event, which continues to this day.

This year, President Trump was joined by First Lady Melania Trump for the ceremony. A professional lip reader later revealed a peculiar remark Trump made to Melania during the event.

Turkeys, named Gobble and Wade, received their festive reprieve this year. Before arriving at the White House, these fortunate birds had a luxurious stay at the prestigious Willard Hotel in Washington, D.C. According to Jaap Boelens, the hotel manager, they spent the previous night in a plush suite costing $400 a night.

Boelens humorously shared, “The turkeys received a red-carpet welcome. When I checked in on them, I even joked about running a credit check! It appears they enjoyed the mini bar, which is perfectly fine.”

In his typical style, Trump didn’t miss the opportunity to jab at his political adversaries during his speech. Drawing laughs, he mentioned initially considering Chuck and Nancy as names for the turkeys, a nod to Democratic leaders Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi.

“But I quickly realized they wouldn’t be receiving a pardon if I named them that,” Trump quipped, implying he wouldn’t, despite Melania’s influence.

Following their pardon, Gobble and Wade are set to live out peaceful days at North Carolina State University’s Prestage Department of Poultry Science in Raleigh. Trump also noted with humor that the U.S. Health Secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., had labeled these pardoned birds as “first-era MAHA turkeys,” playing on his health initiative theme, “Make America Healthy Again.”

“Despite their plumpness, they definitely qualify as MAHA turkeys,” Trump remarked with a grin. “They’ve indulged in every rich meal possible, ensuring they’re truly special.”

A notable moment during the ceremony involved an exchange between Trump and Melania as they descended the stairs. Lip reader Nicola Hickling shared with Express that Trump told Melania, “I’m happy to go after you,” a curious comment made during their interaction.

Trump’s fascination with the turkeys was apparent as he continued conversing with Melania, observing their substantial size. “Wow! Okay, okay, check them out… so this isn’t abnormal? They’re normal then? They look quite striking,” he commented, amazed by the birds’ appearance.