Is Kamala trying to lose?
Former President Trump recently expressed his surprise at Vice President Kamala Harris’s absence from the 79th Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner, calling it a “terrible” choice for the Democratic leader. During his appearance on “FOX & Friends,” Trump remarked, “It was a great event for the Catholic Church, supporting numerous good causes. Many people expected her to attend, especially given the event’s significance.”
The Al Smith Dinner, established in 1946, has been a key fundraiser for charities that assist women and children, and it has grown into a staple of election season, promoting camaraderie and good humor among political rivals. Trump’s comments underscore the unusual nature of Harris’s decision to skip an event that historically draws candidates from both parties. “In all my years, only one candidate has missed it—Walter Mondale in 1984, and we all know how that turned out,” he noted, alluding to Mondale’s overwhelming loss in the election.
When co-host Brian Kilmeade asked why he thought Harris missed the dinner, Trump candidly stated, “I think she’s not competent. We can’t afford that kind of leadership.” He further criticized her suitability for high office, joking, “We can’t have a Marxist in the White House,” reflecting a sentiment shared by many in the Republican base.
Trump’s humor was on full display during the event, as he quipped about Harris’s absence: “If you really wanted her to attend, just tell her the funds were going to bail out looters, and she would’ve been here for sure.” This jab referenced her support for a bail fund during the unrest in 2020, highlighting the contrasting priorities that Republicans often attribute to the Democratic leadership.
New York Archbishop Timothy Dolan, who hosted the dinner, expressed disappointment over Harris’s absence, emphasizing that the event was meant to foster unity and civility among attendees, not serve as a platform for political campaigning. This sentiment resonates with many Republicans who believe in the importance of coming together, even amidst political differences.
Among the attendees were notable figures like New York Attorney General Letitia James and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, who often find themselves at odds with Trump and his supporters. Despite the political tensions, the dinner is a reminder of the potential for bipartisan engagement, something many hope to see more of in future election cycles.