Kamala Flip-Flops Again

Vice President Kamala Harris is set to address the upcoming Al Smith Memorial Foundation dinner in New York through a recorded video message, organizers announced on Thursday. This decision comes as her campaign confirmed she would forgo attending the prestigious charity event, which has a long-standing tradition of raising significant funds for Catholic charities. Instead, she plans to focus her efforts on campaign events in Wisconsin, a crucial battleground state as the election cycle intensifies.

In stark contrast, former President Donald Trump will be present at the event, ready to engage with attendees and deliver live remarks. This annual gathering, now in its 79th year, is hosted by New York Cardinal Timothy Dolan and is known for its lighthearted atmosphere where presidential candidates often exchange humorous jabs. However, Trump’s appearance in 2016 set a new precedent, as he broke from tradition by openly criticizing then-candidate Hillary Clinton, leaving a lasting impression on the event’s legacy.

The dinner will be emceed by comedian Jim Gaffigan, who has recently gained attention for his comedic portrayal of Democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Walz on “Saturday Night Live.” Gaffigan’s involvement promises to add an entertaining twist to the evening, but it’s the contrast between the candidates that will likely dominate discussions.

As the political landscape heats up, the absence of Vice President Harris from such a prominent gathering could be seen as a missed opportunity to engage with key constituents. In a time when candidates are eager to connect with voters, Trump’s decision to attend in person reinforces his commitment to engaging with the Republican base and fostering connections within the party. The evening promises to be an insightful reflection of the current political climate, highlighting the distinct approaches of both parties as they gear up for the upcoming elections.