Harris' Decision to Skip Al Smith Dinner Raises Questions

Vice President Kamala Harris has made headlines after her decision to skip the annual Al Smith Dinner, a significant charitable event hosted by the Archdiocese of New York. This marks the first time in 40 years that a presidential candidate has declined the invitation to this event. The dinner, established in honor of Alfred Smith, the first Catholic to run for U.S. president, is known for bringing political figures together in a lighthearted and nonpartisan manner.

Political experts are calling the decision “puzzling.” Brian Browne, an assistant vice president for government relations at St. John’s University, remarked that the Al Smith Dinner provides a platform for politicians to show a more human and relatable side, while also supporting a charitable cause. He noted that the event is highly scripted, with opportunities for humor, making it a low-risk environment for political figures. Browne sees Harris' absence as a missed opportunity to connect with the largely Catholic audience and to demonstrate unity during a divisive political climate.

Joseph Zwilling, a spokesperson for the Archdiocese of New York, expressed disappointment, emphasizing that the dinner serves as a moment of unity, putting aside political differences to support women and children in need.

While Harris' campaign has not provided specific reasons for the decision, reports suggest the focus may be on campaigning in battleground states. Political scientist Jacob Smith suggested that Harris might be cautious about potential confrontations at the dinner, given how former President Donald Trump broke the event’s lighthearted tradition in 2016 by attacking his opponent.

Regardless of the rationale, experts agree that Harris' decision reflects the increasing polarization in American politics, where even events designed to foster bipartisanship struggle to maintain their relevance.