Donald Trump’s comedic set at the Al Smith Dinner was marked by humor, jabs at political opponents, and a notable absence.
At a Glance
- Donald Trump targeted Vice President Kamala Harris during his Al Smith Dinner speech.
- The Al Smith Dinner raises funds for women and children through political roasts.
- Harris was the first Democrat since 1984 to miss the event, citing other commitments.
- Former First Lady Melania Trump made a rare public appearance at the dinner.
Donald Trump’s Speech Highlights
Donald Trump delivered a comedic routine at the Alfred E. Smith Memorial Dinner. His performance included jabs at prominent Democrats, especially targeting Vice President Kamala Harris. Known for his brash humor, Trump criticized Harris for her absence from the event, suggesting it showed disrespect towards the Catholic community. Over his half-hour speech, he entertained the audience with a mix of personal anecdotes and sharp comments directed at New York politicians such as New York Mayor Eric Adams and Senator Chuck Schumer.
Trump’s comedic repertoire featured remarks on Harris, often drawing groans from attendees. He jokingly commented on her intelligence and absence, speculating she might be in Michigan with Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Trump’s humor was a mix of self-deprecation and sharp wit, maintaining engagement throughout his routine.
Watch Donald Trump’s FULL roast at the Al Smith Dinner (which Kamala Harris felt she didn’t need to attend) pic.twitter.com/oqo7nG1Abz
— The First (@TheFirstonTV) October 18, 2024
Vice President Kamala Harris’s Absence
Kamala Harris opted out of attending the annual dinner, marking a break with tradition. Instead, she dispatched a pre-recorded video with comedic input from SNL’s Molly Shannon, failing to receive a warm reception. Archbishop Timothy Dolan expressed his disappointment at Harris’s absence, noting its impact on the event’s unity message. Meanwhile, Harris’s decision drew parallels to Walter Mondale, who similarly missed the event in 1984 during his presidential campaign.
“The last Democrat not to attend this event was Walter Mondale and it did not go very well for him,” he said, referencing Mondale’s loss in 1984.
Trump amplified the significance of Catholic voters, especially in battleground states. His performance at the charity dinner, aimed to bolster his standing among these voters, underscored his strategy leading into the 2024 elections.
Donald Trump roasts crowd at NYC’s Al Smith charity dinner, rips Kamala Harris for skipping event https://t.co/eXs3Wx2mwr pic.twitter.com/a911QEJQih
— New York Post (@nypost) October 18, 2024
Impact and Reactions
Responses to Trump’s performance were mixed. While some praised his humor, others critiqued the delivery and tone. Harris’s absence and her video message prompted discussions on her engagement strategy. Trump’s humor, marked by its sharpness, served to underscore his campaign focus. The event highlighted the critical role of Catholic voters in upcoming elections and emphasized Trump’s continued engagement with religious communities for political gain.
“My opponent feels like she does not have to be here, which is disrespectful to the event and in particular to our great Catholic community – very disrespectful,” Trump said.
Nonetheless, the gathering featured a broad mix of political figures, marking an evening of political reflection wrapped in humor and tradition.
