Staff Reports
Kamala Harris is continuing her trend of partisanship by skipping a long-standing tradition that has benefitted Catholic charities for nearly eight decades. The Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner, a prestigious white-tie event held in New York City, is famous for bringing together candidates from both parties to raise vital funds for children in need. However, this year, Harris has opted to abandon this spirit of bipartisanship, choosing instead to campaign in an undisclosed battleground state. This decision raises eyebrows and shows a blatant disregard for a charitable gathering that dates back to the Kennedy-Nixon era.
The Al Smith Dinner, named after the iconic New York governor who was a pioneer for Catholics in politics, traditionally features both the Democratic and Republican candidates exchanging humorous jabs while supporting a good cause. It has become a hallmark of political civility in a time when such qualities are sorely absent. The last Democrat to skip this dinner was Walter Mondale in 1984, who was notably absent while Ronald Reagan entertained the crowd alone. Harris’s absence not only breaks the streak of bipartisan attendance but also sends a clear message: partisanship takes precedence over charity.
Harris Clings to Partisanship, Will Skip 79-Year Campaign Tradition That Benefits Catholic Charities – RedState. Si why would she skip? Scared of getting her feelings hurt https://t.co/RZSsDvEout
— KC Loughlin III (@kcloughlin03) September 23, 2024
A spokesperson for the Archdiocese expressed disappointment at Harris’s decision, emphasizing the event’s focus on unity and support for underserved communities, regardless of their backgrounds. The hope is that she might reconsider and embrace the spirit of the evening, but one must wonder if she’s more concerned with maintaining her political distance than engaging in a time-honored tradition that champions helping those in need. It’s hard to imagine that a seasoned politician would prefer to dodge the spotlight of charity for the murky waters of a campaign trail.
The contrast between Harris’s absence and past candidates’ respectful attendance could not be starker. Even in the heated campaigns of yesteryear, major candidates like Donald Trump and Joe Biden took the stage together, highlighting their shared heritage while managing to maintain an air of goodwill. Harris, on the other hand, seems insistent on avoiding genuine interaction, opting instead for rehearsed talking points and avoiding real journalists with real questions. What could possibly be so intimidating that she would choose to skip a chance to engage across the aisle?
As the clock ticks down to the November election, Harris appears to be more focused on avoiding any situation that might expose the inconsistencies in her political persona. With her history of awkward word salads and disingenuous responses, it’s no wonder she seeks to limit her public interactions. However, if she does find her way into the Oval Office, it’s clear what her agenda might be: continue down the path set by her party to reshape America in a way that many conservatives fear will push the nation towards socialism.
The juxtaposition of this year’s decision against the backdrop of a storied tradition illustrates just how far the Democratic party has strayed from celebrating unity, charity, and shared values. With Kamala Harris choosing to forgo this opportunity, it raises serious questions about her commitment to the very constituents she claims to represent. Wouldn’t it have been refreshing to see a moment of camaraderie? Instead, this year’s dinner will carry on, perhaps a little quieter, and certainly without the unpredictable antics of a politician who seems more interested in politicking than in people.
