Cardinal Dolan criticises Kamala Harris for skipping Al Smith Dinner

Timothy Cardinal Dolan, the Roman Catholic Archbishop of New York, expressed disappointment over Vice President Kamala Harris's decision to skip the annual Al Smith Dinner. 

During an interview with The Good Newsroom, Dolan remarked, "I am a little nervous, obviously still disappointed because the vice president isn’t coming." He noted that Harris would instead send “one of those Zooms or something,” referring to her pre-recorded video message for the event. The Al Smith Dinner, which has been held since 1946, aims to bring together politicians in a spirit of unity and patriotism.

Dolan stressed that the dinner is not about political campaigning but about promoting bipartisan cooperation. “The Al Smith Dinner is not red or blue. It’s red, white and blue. It’s all about patriotism, it’s all about the country and it’s all about humour,” Dolan stated. Despite Harris's absence, Republican nominee Donald Trump attended in person alongside his wife, Melania, continuing the event’s tradition of featuring presidential candidates from both parties.

The dinner is expected to raise $10 million for charities that support vulnerable women and children, further highlighting its significance beyond politics.