Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the Archbishop of New York, expressed his disappointment over Vice President Kamala Harris’s decision to skip the Al Smith Dinner, a traditional event where presidential candidates from both parties typically come together in a spirit of unity and humor.
This event, which supports Catholic charities, has not seen a presidential nominee decline an invitation in 40 years, highlighting its significance. Dolan remarked on the historical nature of Harris’s decision, noting that the last time something similar occurred was in 1984 when Walter Mondale, also a Democratic nominee, chose not to attend, subsequently losing the election in a landslide.
“We’re not used to this. We don’t know how to handle it. This hasn’t happened in 40 years, since Walter Mondale turned down the invitation. And remember, he lost 49 out of 50 states. I don’t want to say there’s a direct connection there, but… we’re not giving up.”
Despite his disappointment, Dolan maintained a hopeful tone, suggesting there might still be a chance for her to reconsider.
The Al Smith Dinner, named after the first Catholic nominated by a major party for president, has been a platform for presidential candidates to engage in light-hearted political roasts since 1945. Harris’s absence from this year’s event, where she was expected alongside former President Donald Trump, has raised discussions about political unity and engagement.
Trump has confirmed his attendance, emphasizing the event’s importance for showcasing a semblance of political camaraderie. This situation underscores ongoing political divisions, with some seeing Harris’s decision as reflective of broader ideological conflicts, particularly concerning issues like abortion, which have historically influenced the event’s dynamics.
