Trump Criticizes Kamala Harris for Skipping Al Smith Charity Dinner, Takes Aim at Catholic Voters
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Donald Trump took a jab at Catholic voters and Vice President Kamala Harris ahead of the upcoming Al Smith charity dinner in New York, set to benefit Catholic Charities. The event, scheduled for October 17, is one of the most prominent gatherings in the political calendar, and Harris has opted to skip it to focus on campaigning in key battleground states.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump responded to Harris’s decision not to attend, writing, “It will be an honor to attend the SOLD OUT 79th ANNUAL AL SMITH DINNER on October 17th in New York. It will be great to see so many wonderful people there, including Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan.” He continued by invoking the legacy of prominent Catholic figures, stating, “We know the Spirit of Al Smith, the first Catholic Nominee of a Major Party, and John F. Kennedy, the FIRST Catholic President, will be in the room with us that night.”
Trump went on to recall his past appearances at the dinner, notably the 2016 event with Hillary Clinton. “The reviews of my remarks were TREMENDOUS,” he added, emphasizing the success of his previous participation. However, Trump did not hold back in criticizing Harris for her absence, questioning her commitment to Catholic voters.
“It’s sad, but not surprising, that Kamala has decided not to attend,” Trump said. “I don’t know what she has against our Catholic friends, but it must be a lot because she certainly hasn’t been very nice to them.” Trump further escalated his rhetoric, accusing the Biden-Harris administration of mistreating Catholics.
“Catholics are literally being persecuted by this Administration,” he claimed, before directing a sharp remark at Catholics who support Harris. “Any Catholic that votes for Comrade Kamala Harris should have their head examined,” he said, echoing language he previously used to criticize Jewish voters who backed his Democratic opponents.
Harris’s decision to prioritize campaigning over the New York event comes as the 2024 election season heats up, with battleground states playing a crucial role in the upcoming vote. Trump’s remarks appear aimed at consolidating support among Catholic voters, a group he has courted in past elections. The Al Smith dinner, traditionally a night for political humor and goodwill, may take on a sharper tone with Trump in attendance and Harris notably absent.
