Turkey featured at event with Gov. Walz will not get a pardon

ST. PAUL (KVRR) — Gov. Tim Walz held his annual presentation of Minnesota’s Thanksgiving Turkey.

The state leads the nation in turkey production with over 600 farms.

He thanked those farmers for everything they do to make Thanksgiving traditions possible.

The turkey named “Gru” comes from a farm near Swanville, just east of Alexandria.

But unlike The White House turkeys, this 45-pound bird will not be spending the rest of its life on a farm in luxury.

“After this he will come home with us and be the main guest on our Thanksgiving table,” said Swanville 4-H student Shelby Barber which drew laughs from those in attendance and a “Well said,” by Walz.

Minnesota’s turkey industry generates $1 billion each year.