New York City was buzzing with anticipation as former President Donald Trump took to the podium at the annual Al Smith Dinner, known for its lighthearted roasting of candidates and political figures. This year, the event underlined the stark divide between Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, who opted to skip the dinner, marking her absence as the first by a major presidential candidate since Walter Mondale did the same decades ago. Trump seized the opportunity, not holding back as he unleashed his trademark humor and sharp critiques against his political foes.
The Al Smith Dinner, hosted by the Catholic archdiocese of New York, has become somewhat of a political tradition, drawing major candidates and prominent figures for evening camaraderie mixed with laughs. Yet this year was particularly charged, as Trump's barbs zeroed in on Harris for not attending. During his speech, he quipped, "I guess you should have told her the funds were going to bail out the looters and rioters in Minneapolis and she would have been here guaranteed," prompting laughter from the audience.
Trump's remarks targeting Harris didn’t stop there. He continued his roast by joking about her supposed participation: "The real reason she’s not here is she’s hunting with her running mate," which carried his usual flavor of irreverent humor. He compared her absence to Mondale’s, who had famously only won his home state after skipping the dinner, declaring, "Shows there is a God," eliciting laughter yet again.
With Harris absent, her representation was left to a pre-recorded video message, where she criticized Trump for his election denialism. Although the video made its rounds, it failed to impress the live audience, many of whom seemed left confused by the lack of her presence.
The event took place against the backdrop of intense campaigning as both Trump and Harris prepare for the impending election. Trump's performance garnered varied reactions. While some celebrated his comedic timing, others noted the underlying bitterness of his jibes. Comedian Jim Gaffigan, emceeing the event, added to the moment by poking fun at Biden and recognizing the awkwardness of Harris’s video, saying it left the audience dazed and confused.
Trump also brought fire to the night by poking at New York Mayor Eric Adams, who is currently dealing with legal troubles. “Good luck!” Trump said, wishing Adams well with his legal issues, which drew chuckles from attendees who were already anticipating the roast for the night. Also, he slyly remarked about Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, cautioning, “He shouldn’t be allowed near nannies,” referring to past controversies surrounding Emhoff's personal life, which added another layer of humor to the evening.
Reflecting on his own absence from self-deprecatory humor, Trump declared, “Tradition holds I’m supposed to tell a few self-deprecatory jokes this evening… nope, I’ve got nothing,” instantly showcasing his confidence and creating levity. It was his way of acknowledging the spirit of the night, even as he maintained his usual bravado.
The dinner is traditionally viewed as not only a charity event raising funds for Catholic charities but also as a platform for political figures to showcase their human side, promoting unity and goodwill amid the often polarizing environment of politics. Cardinal Timothy Dolan, archbishop of New York, voiced his disappointment over Harris’s absence, calling it “deeply disrespectful” to the event and underscoring the missed opportunity for political leaders to display camaraderie.
Despite the humor and convivial atmosphere, the divide between the candidates was palpable. Harris's choice to address the crowd via video rather than attending left many speculating about her strategies leading up to the election. Highlighting this discord, Gaffigan humorously suggested, “President Biden couldn’t be here tonight. The DNC made sure of it,” reinforcing the idea of party manipulation amid campaign trials.
This year’s Al Smith Dinner offered more than just roasts and laughs; it served as yet another reminder of the disparate paths the candidates are taking during this fiercely competitive election season. While Trump stood before the glittering New York crowd, confidently lampooning his rivals, Harris’s video message echoed within the hall but failed to capture the room's warmth.
With the election approaching, both candidates face immense scrutiny, with events like the Al Smith Dinner acting as barometers for public perception. Trump’s sharp wit and willingness to engage with his audience showcased his campaign style—bold and unapologetic. Meanwhile, Harris’s decision to skip the dinner continues to raise questions about what strategies lay ahead as she navigates the battleground states seeking support and voter approval.
Looking forward, it remains evident both Trump and Harris are gearing up for significant challenges. While one is firing off quips and targeting opponents, the other is focusing on gaining traction with the electorate, each employing their unique strategies to capture the hearts of American voters.
