Pool Reports of November 20, 2023

Pool report #1: Running late

Good morning from the White House, where we await the pardoning of Bell and Liberty.

As you will know the event was due to start at 11:15 but we are running late. We have yet to be called to gather.

Just a reminder that the event is open press and live streamed so pool will endeavor to provide extra detail and color.

Pool report #2: South Lawn 2 min

There is a decent crowd of a couple of hundred people on the South Lawn for the spectacle, including Pete Buttigeig and family, and Mike Donilon.

Our two lucky turkeys are behaving themselves. Their white plumage is set off by their magnificent blue faces. They are gobbling only occasionally and look anything but overawed by the event.

It is a crisp 50F.

The podium is decorated with pumpkins and fall colors.

Pool report #3: POTUS and participants

POTUS appeared at 11:40 and did a little running step on his way to the podium.

Participants - from the White House

Acting Secretary Julie Su, Department of Labor
Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Department of Transportation
Minnesota State Senator Robert Kupec (District 4)
Minnesota State Representative Samantha Vang (District 38B)
Minnesota State Representative Kristi Pursell (District 58A)
Minnesota State Auditor Julie Blaha

Pool report #4: Biden on hostage deal

Someone shouted a question at Biden about a hostage deal being near.

POTUS responded 'I believe so'. Please check against video feed

(Thanks to Jordan Fabian for the assist)

The birds won their freedom at 11:45.

POTUS finished talking at 11:47 and then went to greet the crowd.

Maisy Biden watched the ceremony just being the podium with little Beau, who stood with hands in pockets and hair in pony tail. He got to stroke (gingerly) one of the turkeys afterwards.

Pool report #5: Kirby at briefing

The White House sends this along:

NSC Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby will join Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre at the press briefing today.

Pool report #6: 2 min warning to briefing

2 min warning to briefing

Pool report #7: lid

Lid called at 5:05pm

Good night and have a great Thanksgiving