Trump to attend Al Smith dinner in New York; Harris rallies in Wisconsin after combative Fox interview: Live updates

On October 17, 2024, the Al Smith charity dinner took place in Manhattan, a traditional event that raises funds for Catholic charities and typically features both major party candidates. This year, Donald Trump attended in person, delivering a series of jokes aimed at Vice President Kamala Harris, who chose to participate via a pre-recorded video instead of attending the event. Trump's remarks included insults directed at Harris and her family, as well as commentary on her absence, which he deemed disrespectful. Harris's decision to skip the dinner was notable, as it marked the first time in decades that a major party candidate did not attend this significant political event. Her campaign team indicated that she prioritized campaigning in Wisconsin, a crucial battleground state, over attending the dinner. This choice drew criticism from various quarters, including Trump's campaign, which highlighted the break from tradition and questioned her commitment to engaging with voters. The dinner served as a platform for both candidates to showcase their political personas and engage in light-hearted banter, a hallmark of the event. However, the absence of Harris diminished the event's usual bipartisan spirit, leading to a more one-sided exchange dominated by Trump's jabs. As the 2024 presidential election approaches, the dynamics between Trump and Harris continue to intensify, with both candidates leveraging events like the Al Smith dinner to solidify their positions and appeal to voters.