VP Kamala Harris opts out of Al Smith gala to focus on campaign in key states

Vice President Kamala Harris has decided to forgo this year's Al Smith charity dinner in New York, breaking with presidential tradition in favor of campaigning in key battleground states ahead of Election Day.

The Al Smith dinner, which benefits Catholic Charities, is known for promoting friendship and good humor, with candidates from both parties often sharing the stage. A campaign official confirmed to CBS News that Kamala's absence is aimed at maximizing her time in critical regions as the election approaches. The official added that Kamala would welcome the opportunity to attend as president if elected in November.

This year's white-tie gala is scheduled for October 17. Donald Trump's campaign did not immediately respond regarding his attendance, although his 2016 appearance faced criticism when he made controversial remarks about Hillary Clinton.

The Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner, named after the former New York governor and the first Roman Catholic nominated for president by a major party in 1928, raises millions for Catholic charities. The event has been a tradition for presidential candidates since the joint appearance of Richard Nixon and John F. Kennedy in 1960.

Cardinal Timothy Dolan, who plays a prominent role in the dinner, has been vocal in his criticism of Democrats, having written a 2018 op-ed titled "The Democrats Abandon Catholics."

In recent years, the dinner has been overshadowed by political tensions. In 2020, both Trump and Democratic nominee Joe Biden participated in an online version of the event, focusing their speeches on appealing to Catholic voters amid the pandemic. Biden has not attended since taking office.

Kamala's decision underscores her campaign strategy as she prioritises outreach in important states in the lead-up to the election.