Trump Speaks at Annual Al Smith Dinner, Harris Sends Pre-recorded Video
Former President Donald Trump attended the 79th Annual Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner in New York City on October 17, 2024. The event, hosted by New York Cardinal Timothy Dolan, is a major fundraising event for Catholic charities. Trump has attended the dinner each election year since 2016, including a virtual event in 2020.
Vice President Kamala Harris did not attend the in-person event but sent a pre-recorded video message. Her campaign stated that she was focusing on campaigning in the battleground state of Wisconsin on the same day. The Al Smith dinner traditionally includes presidential candidates and is known for its lighthearted jabs and humor, although this year’s event will be slightly different due to Harris’s absence. Comedian Jim Gaffigan is hosting the event.
