Governor Whitmer Breaks From Thanksgiving Tradition, Needs Your Help

The last Thursday of November is a special time for families around the country as they gather with friends and family to express their gratitude by sharing a meal together. Yes, nothing says gratitude like stuffing your face with as much turkey and mashed potatoes as humanely possible before entering a 17-hour food coma.

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One lucky turkey has something else to be very grateful for on Thanksgiving each year: life. Much like the President of the United States, the Governor of Michigan partakes in the annual tradition of pardoning one turkey, saving it from meeting a grizzly end at the hands of a gluttonous individual.

This year, however, Governor Whitmer is making a unique change to this tradition, and she needs your help.

Turkey Pardoning Tradition, 80 years strong

The White House has been sparing a turkey every year since Harry Truman initiated the tradition for the first time in 1947, reportedly inspired by a story about Abraham Lincoln and his son. The location where pardoned turkeys are sent varies every year, sometimes to farms to live out their remaining years, or to colleges or petting zoos (hopefully).

Governor Whitmer's Tradition Change

Gretchen Whitmer has announced on Facebook that she will be making a small change to the turkey pardoning tradition this year by pardoning not one but two turkeys. Additionally, the Governor is inviting people to submit names for the fortunate turkeys, with submissions due by November 9th, ahead of the turkey pardoning on the 18th.

READ MORE: Record Holiday Travel Expected for Michigan This Thanksgiving

A reason wasn't given for the double pardoning, but it could be a way to provide a lighthearted change while families around the state struggle during the government shutdown.

Personally, I suggest naming the turkeys Gibbs and Monty. Michigan's powerhouse duo would make an excellent combo for Michigan's soon-to-be iconic turkeys.