The NPR Politics Podcast Spare A Thought For Sparing Turkeys?
Nov 24, 2022
Explore the whimsical tradition of the Turkey Pardon, where the President spares turkeys from dinner. Hear the skeptical take on its irony and the motives behind this celebration. Delve into the origins and evolution of the ritual, complete with funny anecdotes. The hosts share amusing thoughts about the latest pardoned turkeys and even the First Dog, adding a light-hearted twist to the holiday spirit.
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Turkey Pardon Reporting
- Domenico Montanaro has reported on the turkey pardon for 13 years.
- He views it as a PR stunt by the National Turkey Federation promoting turkey consumption.
Turkey Pardon Irony
- The turkey pardon is ironic, pardoning birds who did nothing wrong.
- The National Turkey Federation, a turkey lobby, heavily promotes turkey consumption despite the pardon.
Turkey Pardon History
- Turkeys pardoned by the president get special treatment, including hotel stays and social media.
- The tradition of sending turkeys to presidents dates back to the 1800s, originating with Harold Vokes, the "poultry king."