Now this is real comedy!
Former President Donald Trump took center stage at the Al Smith Dinner, delivering his signature humor and biting critiques that left no one unscathed. Addressing the crowd, Trump wasted no time in targeting Vice President Kamala Harris for her absence at the event, marking a notable break in tradition. It was the first time since 1984 that a presidential candidate declined to attend, and Trump couldn’t resist a jab. “I guess if she knew the funds were going to support bailing out looters and rioters, she would’ve shown up,” he quipped, drawing laughter from the audience.
Continuing his roast, Trump made a humorous reference to Harris’ absence, suggesting she might be “receiving Communion from Gretchen Whitmer,” poking fun at the Michigan governor’s infamous viral moment. He criticized Harris for disrespecting the Catholic community, paralleling her to former Vice President Walter Mondale, who also skipped the dinner and faced a devastating electoral defeat. Trump laughed, “Looks like there’s a higher power at play,” reflecting on Mondale’s fate against Ronald Reagan.
Not one to hold back, Trump turned his attention to New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who is currently under federal indictment. He playfully wished him “good luck” before making a lighthearted remark about second gentleman Doug Emhoff, emphasizing that the political landscape is full of surprises.
Trump didn’t hold back when it came to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, delivering a sharp jab that resonated with the audience. He remarked, “But look on the bright side, Chuck—given how woke your party has become, if Kamala loses, you might just have a shot at becoming the first woman president!”
In a classic Trumpian twist, he joked about a group called “White Dudes for Harris,” claiming their spouses were voting for him. The crowd roared in approval, appreciating his ability to blend humor with pointed criticism.
While Trump entertained the audience, Harris opted for a pre-recorded message that failed to resonate with many. Her appearance was met with confusion, especially when interrupted by a character from the film “Superstar,” reinforcing the notion that humor doesn’t always land as intended.
The evening, aimed at fostering unity, ended up highlighting the stark divide in American politics, with Cardinal Timothy Dolan expressing disappointment over Harris’ absence. His hope for a night of camaraderie among political rivals felt diminished as the evening unfolded, emphasizing that even at charitable gatherings, the political battlefield remains heated.
As the countdown to the elections continues, the dynamics between Trump, Harris, and the Democratic establishment seem more contentious than ever. The Al Smith Dinner may have been a moment for lightheartedness, but it served as a stark reminder of the serious stakes ahead in the upcoming electoral battle.