Donald Trump speaks at Al Smith gala amid Access Hollywood controversy

On October 18, 2024, Melania Trump made a rare public appearance with her husband, Donald Trump, at the Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner in New York City. This annual charity gala, hosted by the Archdiocese of New York, benefits Catholic charities and is a significant event on the political campaign trail. Although Democratic nominee Kamala Harris did not attend, notable figures such as Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and New York Attorney General Letitia James were present. The evening included a performance by comedian Jim Gaffigan, who made jokes about Trump's past infidelities, which elicited mixed reactions from the audience. During the event, Donald Trump expressed gratitude towards Melania, highlighting her recent memoir that topped the New York Times bestseller list. He praised her hard work and the success of her book, which he humorously noted was easier to achieve with the Trump name. Melania's attendance at the gala marked her first major political event since the Republican National Convention in July, indicating a potential shift in her public engagement. Sources indicated that Melania's decision to attend was influenced by tradition, suggesting that this could lead to more public appearances in the future. The gala serves not only as a charity event but also as a platform for political candidates to connect with influential figures and the public, making it a crucial stop in the campaign season. Overall, Melania's presence alongside Donald Trump at this high-profile event underscores the couple's ongoing involvement in the political landscape as the election approaches.