I Beg Your Pardon?

Every Thanksgiving, the President pardons one lucky turkey, and some governors do the same in their states. This year, however, at least one governor is changing that tradition, by sentencing one turkey to become a meal for the needy. Governor Mark Dayton of Minnsota will be sending his turkey to the St. Paul Salvation Army to bring Thanksgiving to hungry families. And, he inspired the Minnesota Turkey Growers Association to donate enough turkey to feed 12,500 people. Governor Dayton made his choice to highlight Congress cutting food stamps, and he said, "It's a cruel way to treat [hungry Americans] in the holiday season." While animal lovers may prefer that the turkeys get pardoned, it's nice to see an elected leader speaking out these harsh food stamp cuts, and doing something to help hungry families enjoy Thanksgiving.