President Donald Trump will carry on a long-standing tradition by pardoning two turkeys, named Waddle and Gobble, during a ceremony at the White House on Tuesday, November 23, 2023. This event marks a moment of holiday celebration as Trump heads to his private resort in Florida for Thanksgiving. However, this festive occasion occurs during a politically challenging period for the president, whose administration is facing numerous pressing issues.
The turkey pardon, a ritual that has been part of the presidential calendar for decades, typically serves as a light-hearted moment. Nonetheless, this Thanksgiving may not offer Trump much political reprieve. Following significant electoral losses for Republicans in New Jersey, Virginia, and other regions earlier this month, the party appears to be grappling with internal divisions. The upcoming midterm elections in 2024 will play a pivotal role in determining control of Congress, amplifying the stakes for Trump’s administration.
In the international arena, Trump is encountering difficulties in executing a coherent strategy to address the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. An earlier proposal faced backlash from both European allies and members of his own party, complicating his diplomatic efforts. Additionally, the U.S. military is reportedly preparing to conduct operations against drug cartels in Venezuela, a move that could have far-reaching implications for the stability of the region.
As families gather for Thanksgiving meals, they may face higher costs this year. Despite Trump’s assertions that prices are stabilizing, many Americans are experiencing persistent inflation that affects their holiday budgets. Research suggests that the price of traditional Thanksgiving foods has increased, which may dampen the festive spirit for some households.
In the wake of these challenges, the Trump administration is also planning a review of refugees admitted to the U.S. during the presidency of Joe Biden. A memo obtained by the Associated Press outlines the administration’s intentions to scrutinize nearly 200,000 refugees who sought sanctuary in the U.S. This initiative has raised concerns among advocates who believe it represents a continuation of the administration’s strict immigration policies.
A recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center highlights rising discontent among Hispanic voters, a demographic that played a crucial role in Trump’s previous electoral success. The polls indicate that a growing number of Hispanic adults disapprove of the administration’s handling of key issues such as the economy and immigration. This shift in sentiment could pose additional challenges for Trump as he navigates the political landscape leading up to the midterms.
As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, the combination of traditional festivities and pressing political realities reflects the complexities facing the Trump administration. With significant challenges both domestically and internationally, the coming weeks will undoubtedly test the president’s leadership and resilience as he prepares for a pivotal election year.
