WASHINGTON, DC: President Joe Biden presided over the annual White House Thanksgiving tradition of the turkey pardon on November 20. However, he had to abruptly leave the ceremony, which the 81-year-old incumbent did with a brisk walk, leading internet trolls to go after him.
This year, the turkeys who were spared are Liberty, weighing 42.5 pounds, and Bell, weighing 42.1 pounds, reported CNN.
"These birds have a new appreciation for the word, ‘let freedom ring,’” said Biden, adding that “they had to work hard, show patience, and be willing to travel over a thousand miles,” to make it to the White House.
“Look folks, based on their commitment to being productive members of society as they head to their new home at the University of Minnesota ... I hereby pardon Liberty and Bell. Congratulations, birds!” declared Biden to an applauding audience comprising children of his staff and Cabinet members, local schoolkids, and others.
Joe Biden jokes about his birthday
The birthday of the president coincided with the annual White House tradition this year.
“By the way, it’s my birthday today,” said Biden. “I just want you to know, it’s difficult turning 60. Difficult.”
Biden turned 81 this year and is the oldest serving president in the history of the United States.
“This is the 76th anniversary of this event, and I want you to know I wasn’t there at the first one,” he joked, making light of the fact that his age has become an issue as he seeks reelection in 2024.
Internet trolls Joe Biden for abruptly leaving the ceremony
After pardoning Liberty and Bell, President Biden made an abrupt dash for the White House, which led to netizens having a laugh on social media. The following tweets help demonstrate the take of X users on the subject.
"When ya gotta go, ya gotta go," wrote a user.
"I’ve seen that walk, it’s the I shit my pants walk," mocked another.
"Biden abruptly leaves his turkey pardon ceremony. Did Jill forgot to put a diaper on him? Lol," read a third tweet.
"A reporter must have asked him a serious unscripted question," was the take of another.
"I guess the turkeys pardoned HIM," wrote a fifth.
