President Donald Trump will pardon two turkeys, named Waddle and Gobble, during a ceremony on Tuesday, November 23, 2021, as part of a longstanding presidential tradition. This event, taking place at the White House, serves as a festive interlude in a politically charged environment for Trump, who plans to later fly to his private resort in Florida to celebrate Thanksgiving.
Despite the light-hearted nature of the turkey pardon, Trump faces significant challenges. Recent elections in New Jersey, Virginia, and other states witnessed decisive victories for the Democrats, raising concerns about his party’s unity ahead of the midterm elections in 2022. These elections will play a crucial role in determining control of Congress, adding pressure on the president as he navigates a potentially splintering Republican coalition.
Compounding these domestic issues are international crises. Trump is grappling with the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, struggling to implement a coherent strategy after facing criticism from European allies and some members of his own party. Additionally, the U.S. military is preparing for potential operations in Venezuela as part of an anti-drug initiative that could have far-reaching implications for the country’s stability.
As the holiday approaches, many Americans may find their Thanksgiving meals more expensive this year, despite the president’s assurances to the contrary. Rising food prices continue to be a source of frustration for households across the nation, casting a shadow over the festive season.
In conjunction with these developments, the Trump administration announced plans to review all refugees admitted to the U.S. during the Biden administration. According to a memo obtained by The Associated Press, this review may instill fear and uncertainty among the nearly 200,000 refugees who arrived during that period. Advocates for refugees have criticized the move as part of a broader pattern of harsh treatment towards individuals seeking safety and a new start in the United States.
In another indication of changing sentiments, recent surveys conducted by the Pew Research Center reveal increasing dissatisfaction among Hispanic Americans regarding Trump’s handling of economic and immigration policies. The polls, which surveyed over 5,000 Hispanic adults, indicate a growing sense of insecurity, with many expressing concerns about deportation risks for themselves or their loved ones.
As the president prepares for Thanksgiving, the juxtaposition of a festive turkey pardon against a backdrop of political and social turbulence paints a complex picture of his administration’s current state. The coming weeks will likely test Trump’s ability to navigate these challenges as he seeks to solidify his position ahead of the critical midterm elections and address pressing domestic and international issues.
