Obama Pardons Cobbler The Thanksgiving Turkey [Video]

President Obama issued a pardon today for Cobbler the Thanksgiving Turkey.

The annual White House Thanksgiving tradition had a new social media twist this year. The White House put up the profiles for two turkeys, Cobbler and Gobbler, on Facebook and had fans vote for which turkey they wanted to receive a pardon. ABC notes that both turkeys were spared but only Cobbler was present at the annual ceremony.

Obama said:

“You know, they say that life is all about second chances. And this November, I could not agree more … So in the spirit of the season, I have one more gift to give. And it goes to a pair of turkeys named Cobbler and Gobbler. The American people have spoken, and these birds are moving forward.”

Obama also joked about the new social media format and Nate Silver’s uncanny ability at predicting election results.

Obama said:

“Now, I joke, but — but for the first time in our history, the winners of the White House turkey pardon were chosen through a highly competitive online vote … And once again, Nate Silver completely nailed it. The guy’s amazing. He predicted these guys would win.”

CBS reports that Cobbler and Gobbler will be taken to Mount Vernon where they will spend the rest of their days faraway from kitchen tables.

Here’s a video of the annual turkey pardoning ceremony at the White House.