LANSING, Mich. (WSYM) — Turkey Day is almost here, and Governor Whitmer carried on the annual tradition of pardoning a turkey.
"By the Michigan Constitution, I hereby pardon Aidan Cluckinson," said Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
You read that right: the given name to this year's pardoned turkey is inspired by Lions fan favorite Aidan Hutchinson.
More than 4,400 submissions came from people all over the state to name this year's turkey.
The winning name came from a South Lyon youngster.
With Thanksgiving two weeks away, the governor offered some inspiring words as Michiganders prepare for the upcoming holiday.
"Our responsibility as Michiganders is roll up our sleeves, tuck in our wings, and get down to gizz-ness and get things done. Thanksgiving reminds us all that at our best we are birds ... who flock together, pun intended," Whitmer continued.
Soon after his pardon, Aidan Cluckinson made the journey to his new home at Saginaw Children's Zoo.
