Key Takeaways
- President Joe Biden pardoned a chicken named “Cluck Norris,” who identifies as a turkey, during the Thanksgiving ceremony.
- The move highlights a humorous but inclusive approach to the traditional presidential turkey pardon.
- Social media reacts with a mix of praise, humor, and debate over species identification.
In a memorable Thanksgiving tradition, President Joe Biden has given an unconventional twist to the annual turkey pardon by pardoning a chicken named “Cluck Norris,” who identifies as a turkey. The lighthearted event, held on the White House lawn, brought laughter and a few raised eyebrows as Biden leaned into a narrative of inclusivity.
The Chicken-Turned-Turkey Gets a Presidential Pass
Cluck Norris, a plucky Rhode Island Red chicken, was introduced as this year’s honorary turkey. While the bird technically lacks the feathers or stature of a traditional turkey, the White House announced that Norris had “expressed a strong personal identity as a turkey.”
“In America, everyone deserves the freedom to be who they truly are—even our feathered friends,” Biden said with a chuckle during the ceremony. “So today, Cluck Norris, in the spirit of Thanksgiving and identity, I pardon you.”
The ceremony concluded with Cluck Norris fluffing his wings and squawking triumphantly, much to the delight of attendees.
A Tradition with a Twist
While the presidential turkey pardon dates back decades, this year’s decision to include a chicken was a first. “We’re breaking barriers here,” quipped First Lady Jill Biden. “Cluck Norris is a symbol of embracing individuality—and maybe a bit of fun.”
The inclusion of a chicken, albeit one identifying as a turkey, has sparked a range of reactions. Animal rights activists applauded the move as a playful step toward celebrating all poultry, while some critics dismissed it as unnecessary theatrics.
Social Media Gobbles It Up
As news of the pardon spread, social media erupted with jokes, memes, and debates. One post read, “Cluck Norris proves you don’t have to be born a turkey to live like one,” accompanied by an image of the bird wearing sunglasses. Another added, “Finally, chickens have a seat at the Thanksgiving table—well, not literally.”
However, not all reactions were lighthearted. Some online commentators questioned whether the lighthearted nature of the pardon overshadowed the tradition’s significance. Others, though, saw it as a way to bring more attention to the quirks of modern culture.
What’s Next for Cluck Norris?
Following the pardon, Cluck Norris will be relocated to a sanctuary where he can live out his days free from the holiday table. The sanctuary confirmed that Norris will reside alongside turkeys and chickens alike, fostering unity in the barnyard.
The annual turkey pardon remains a symbol of Thanksgiving in America. This year, though, it also reminds us of the importance of humor, inclusivity, and a little bit of cluckiness in our traditions.
