Vice President Kamala Harris chose not to attend the prestigious Al Smith Dinner, opting instead to send a pre-recorded video message, prompting criticism from Timothy Cardinal Dolan.

The absence of the Vice President at an event celebrated for political unity contrasts sharply with the in-person participation of Republican nominee Donald Trump and his wife, New York Post reported.

The Al Smith Dinner, held annually and named after the first Roman Catholic presidential candidate from a major party, serves as a cornerstone event for fostering bipartisan relations and supporting charitable causes. Since its inception in 1946, this dinner has become a symbol of national patriotism and goodwill among politicians.

This year, the gathering was particularly noted for its intent to raise significant funds. Organizers anticipated contributions upward of $10 million, aimed at aiding vulnerable women and children. The melding of humorous speeches with a serious commitment to philanthropy marks this dinner as a highlight of the political calendar.

Cardinal Dolan Shares Frustration Over Video Attendance

Speaking to the Good Newsroom website, Cardinal Dolan did not hide his disappointment regarding Harris’ decision to send a video message. "I am a little nervous, obviously still disappointed because the vice president isn’t coming," he admitted, adding that the nature of her participation was not what was traditionally expected.

Dolan's comments underscored a broader concern that the Vice President’s remote attendance could signal a shift in how political figures engage with historically significant events. He remarked on his radio show about the unexpected decision: "I blew it yesterday in announcing that she is sending one of those Zooms or something."

This sentiment highlights some frustration among event organizers who strive to maintain the dinner as a non-partisan event that enhances mutual respect and unity among political rivals.

Vice President's Schedule Clashes With Traditional Event

Harris was busy with campaign engagements at Washington Crossing Historic Park in Pennsylvania and the University of Wisconsin La Crosse on the days leading up to the dinner. These commitments on October 16 and 17 were indicated as reasons for her virtual appearance at the dinner held the following day.

The Vice President’s schedule perhaps reflects the demands and strategic decisions typical of a heated campaign season, not just for her but for other candidates who must balance public appearances across the country.

The absence of Harris, however, did not dampen the patriotic spirit of the Al Smith Dinner. Cardinal Dolan emphasized, "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 humor."

Trump's Presence Alongside Absent Harris Draws Attention

While Harris sent her regards via video, Donald Trump, accompanied by his wife Melania, attended in person. Their presence was noteworthy as it brought together a significant portion of the Republican base, highlighting the dinner's appeal across the political spectrum.

The involvement of prominent figures like Trump underscores the dinner’s ongoing relevance as a stage for political engagement, irrespective of the current divisive political climate.

Cardinal Dolan used the opportunity to remind attendees and the public that the dinner was meant to transcend political campaigning. "It’s not a campaign speech. It’s not a stump speech. Now, some candidates might use it for that, but that’s not the nature or purpose of the evening, either," Dolan clarified.

The Al Smith Dinner Continues to Promote Unity

The dinner celebrates the spirit of the country through its tradition of inviting political figures to engage in a night of humor and statesmanship. It keeps alive former President Ronald Reagan’s appreciation of the event as a rare moment for politicians "to act like statesmen."

In line with tradition, this year's Al Smith Dinner likely continued to foster an environment where political adversaries could share a laugh, bridging their divides, albeit with one notable absentee. Cardinal's hope was for the event to remind the nation of its capacity for amity and unity, themes that Harris champions but was unable to attend in person.

As the political calendar progresses, the absence of Vice President Harris at the Al Smith Dinner will likely prompt discussions about the balance between campaign obligations and respecting longstanding non-partisan traditions that are cherished in American political culture.