As we approach Thanksgiving, it is a time for us to reflect on what matters most. This is a moment for gratitude and for spending time with loved ones. We are also reminded of how fortunate we are to live in the United States, a country built on freedom and opportunity.
The history of Thanksgiving traces back to 1610. It wasn’t until 1863, during a time of deep national division, that President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday. In the midst of conflict, he called on the nation to pause, to give thanks, and to remember the blessings that unite us. His hope was that this day would help bring our country closer together during the hardships of the Civil War. That message still resonates today.
This year, families across the country are also feeling some relief when it comes to affordability. The American Farm Bureau Federation’s annual Thanksgiving dinner survey shows that the average cost of a classic holiday feast for ten people is $55.18, which comes out to about $5.52 per person. That is a slight decrease from 2024. While three years of declines do not fully erase the record high cost of $64.05 in 2022, it is encouraging progress for families.
Many individual Thanksgiving staples have come down in price. The centerpiece of most tables, the 16-pound turkey, averages $21.50, or about $1.34 per pound, which is sixteen percent lower than f last year. Other popular items including stuffing mix, pie crusts, dinner rolls, eggs, and bags of cranberries are also lower in cost. Altogether, these decreases have helped bring down the price of preparing traditional Thanksgiving meals.
We are fortunate to live in the land of the free because of the brave. I have deep respect and gratitude for the men and women who have served and continue to serve our country by protecting the freedoms we hold dear. Many of these individuals will not be home for the holidays, so we take a moment to reflect on their sacrifices.
Lastly, I am especially grateful to the residents of Oklahoma’s Fifth District, who have placed their trust in me to represent them in Congress. My goal is to ensure your voices are heard and to serve you through meaningful legislation and strong constituent services.
I wish you and your loved ones a safe and happy Thanksgiving Day.
