Governor Stein Pardons Two Turkeys at Annual Ceremony

Gov. Josh Stein pardoned two turkeys on Nov. 21, named Krispy and Kreme, during the state’s annual Thanksgiving Turkey Pardon Ceremony at the Executive Mansion. The event highlighted North Carolina’s poultry industry and a holiday-season push to support food-insecure families.

Stein was joined by North Carolina Poultry Federation President Tim Thomas and representatives from Butterball, which announced a donation of 1,500 bone-in turkey breasts to the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, food banks across the country continue to see elevated demand.

“Thanksgiving gives us a moment to pause and reflect on all that we’re grateful for,” Stein said, thanking farmers, first responders, educators and residents who help their neighbors in need.

Thomas said the federation was proud to continue the tradition, noting poultry contributes more than $39 billion to the state’s economy and supports nearly 150,000 jobs, according to state agriculture data.

Krispy and Kreme — 19-week-old hens weighing about 45 pounds each — will retire to Naylor Family Farm after the ceremony. Butterball provided the turkeys for the event and coordinated the holiday donation. 

Watch the ceremony here.