LANSING (WWJ) — Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on Thursday pardoned a turkey named Aidan Cluckinson, her third time taking part in the pre-Thanksgiving tradition.
The name — in honor of Detroit Lion Aidan Hutchinson — was submitted by Valentina, a young Michigander from South Lyon. It was one of nearly 4,500 entries in a statewide contest.
Whitmer said the name was “one of hundreds of submissions based on our beloved Detroit Lions.” Other finalists include “Gobble-tron” and “Cranberry Sanders.”
“The team has really captured our hearts and made us all hopeful for a Super Bowl this year. This Thanksgiving, I hope everyone enjoys time with loved ones, finds a way to give back to the community, and keeps on cheering for our Lions,” Whitmer said, per a press release.
Dr. Tim Boring, director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, said as a lifelong Lions fan, he was thrilled to take part in Thursday’s pardon.
“He is the definition of true grit and never gets fouled. He will be joining all of us on Thanksgiving Day as the Detroit Lions take wing and fly to their next victory on the road to the Super Bowl,” Boring said.
Aidan Cluckinson will now be taken to the Saginaw Children’s Zoo.
Last year, the governor pardoned Dolly Pardon, a name selected from more than 3,900 entries in the statewide contest. In 2022, Whitmer pardoned Mitch E. Gander.