Kamala Harris' Absence from Al Smith Dinner Breaks Decades-Long Campaign Tradition

Vice President Kamala Harris' presidential campaign announced their intent to skip the historic Al Smith dinner, a tradition spanning decades during election years. Despite traditionally featuring both presidential nominees delivering humorous speeches, Harris has opted to campaign in a battleground state.

Vice President Kamala Harris' presidential campaign has reportedly announced that she will not attend the Al Smith dinner, a long-standing tradition during election years. Typically held in New York City, the dinner benefits Catholic Charities and has featured the Republican and Democratic candidates delivering humorous speeches. The tradition dates back to 1960, when John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon graced the event.

However, there have been exceptions to this tradition. In 1996, 2000, and 2004, the Al Smith dinner organizers opted not to invite the two major presidential candidates. This year, Harris' campaign reportedly informed organizers of her decision to skip the event, citing her intention to campaign in a battleground state. The specific state where Harris will be campaigning has not been disclosed.

Kamala Harris' Absence from Al Smith Dinner Breaks Decades-Long Campaign Tradition

The absence of one presidential candidate from the Al Smith dinner is not unprecedented. In 1984, President Ronald Reagan gave a speech at the event without Walter Mondale, the Democratic nominee. More recently, in 2020, both President Trump and Democratic nominee Joe Biden attended the dinner, refraining from personal attacks despite the intensity of the race.

In their speeches, both Biden and Trump emphasized the values of Catholic social doctrine and the contributions made by Catholics to the nation. Biden highlighted the importance of serving those less fortunate, while Trump acknowledged the role of faith in shaping American values.

Kamala Harris' Absence from Al Smith Dinner Breaks Decades-Long Campaign Tradition

Harris' decision to skip the Al Smith dinner has been met with mixed reactions. Some observers see it as a strategic move to focus on campaigning in key battleground states, while others view it as a break from a cherished tradition. The dinner has historically provided a platform for candidates to display their wit and engage with voters, and Harris' absence may be seen as a missed opportunity.

The Trump campaign has not yet announced whether the Republican candidate plans to attend the Al Smith dinner. If Trump does attend, he will be the only presidential nominee present, as is the case when one candidate opts out.

Kamala Harris' Absence from Al Smith Dinner Breaks Decades-Long Campaign Tradition

Fox News has reached out to both the Harris and Trump campaigns for comment, but a response has not been received as of this writing. The Associated Press and Fox News Digital's Morgan Phillips contributed to this report.