Each year, shortly before Thanksgiving, the president “pardons” two turkeys from slaughter. This ceremony draws the press to the White House for what, traditionally, has been little more than a photo opportunity — and promotion for the multibillion-dollar poultry industry.

Like the 46 million turkeys killed for Thanksgiving each year, the pardoned turkeys are essentially marketing props, even if given a small reprieve. In an era defined by conscientious consumption and consumer distaste for performative acts, it begs the question: Why are we still pardoning turkeys?

With roots tracing back to poultry lobbyists, the pardon remains inextricably linked to animal agriculture. Every year, the chairman of the National Turkey Foundation selects a farm from their state to raise the turkeys to be sent to the nation’s capital. After their pardon, presidential turkeys are typically sent to places........

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