Gretchen Whitmer Pardons Turkey Named Aidan Cluckinson

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has continued Michigan's annual turkey pardoning tradition by pardoning a turkey named Aidan Cluckinson, submitted by a young Michigander, Valentina, from South Lyon. Cluckinson's name was chosen from nearly 4,500 entries in a statewide contest, with many submissions inspired by the Detroit Lions' strong performance this season. In her remarks, Whitmer emphasized the importance of Thanksgiving as a time to come together and support the Lions, who have raised community spirits. Cluckinson will reside at the Saginaw Children's Zoo following the ceremony. This marks Whitmer's third turkey pardon, following Dolly Pardon in 2023 and Mitch E. Gander in 2022. The event also highlighted a sense of unity and gratitude among Michiganders as they celebrate the holiday season.