Former President Donald Trump attended the annual Alfred E. Smith Foundation Dinner, hosted at the New York Hilton Midtown, where high-profile political and Catholic media figures gathered. During his spirited speech, Trump addressed a variety of topics, aiming his sharp wit at political opponents and current national issues. His presence alongside Democratic figures like Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer provided a backdrop for both jovial exchanges and pointed political commentary.
According to Inquisitr, in a lively and controversial speech, Trump critiqued Democrats and joked about the 2024 Presidential Election, stirring reactions from attendees.
Before his formal address, Trump was witnessed sharing a quiet conversation with Schumer, which set a contrasting tone to his public remarks. As the event began, Trump noted Schumer's somber appearance, immediately injecting humor into the atmosphere. "Chuck Schumer is here looking very glum," he noted, eliciting a mix of laughter and murmurs from the audience.
Targeting Schumer directly, Trump joked about the possibility of Schumer becoming the "first woman president." This was a nod to the ongoing debates about gender and identity politics within Schumer's Democratic Party.
He said, “Doesn’t he look glum? But look on the bright side, Chuck, considering how woke your party has become, if Kamala loses, you still have a chance to become the first woman president.” This remark highlighted the evening's tone, blending camaraderie with rivalry.
Despite the barbs, Trump also took moments to express a more positive opinion about Schumer. He acknowledged Schumer’s professionalism and his past relationship with him, stating, “I actually said, ‘Do you mind if I do that?' 'No, you gotta do what you gotta do.’ He’s a pro, he’s a professional. Nah, he’s a good man, actually. I hate to say it. Don’t ever use it against me, please.” Such comments showcased the complex interplay of their current political and personal relationship.
Trump did not shy away from commenting on the broader political landscape. He referred obliquely to concerns within the Democratic Party about the upcoming election, noting press reports of Democrats "panicking" due to unspecified voting trends.
Additionally, Trump criticized Vice President Kamala Harris for not attending the dinner, interpreting her absence as disrespect toward the Catholic community, remarking, “My opponent feels like she does not have to be here, which is deeply disrespectful for the event and in particular for our great Catholic community. Very disrespectful.”
The former president also touched on his longstanding criticism of immigration policies, humorously linking it to New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “Mayor [Eric] Adams told me earlier that I needed to make this one very quick, especially. The city has reserved this room for a large group of illegal aliens coming in from Texas,” he joked, reflecting ongoing national debates on immigration.
Concluding his speech, Trump addressed the personal risks he has faced, with a mix of self-deprecating humor and seriousness.
He spoke about the multiple assassination attempts against him, stating, “I guess I don’t see the point of taking shots at myself when other people have been shooting at me for a hell of a long time,” showcasing his resilience and unique brand of humor.
Throughout the dinner, Cardinal Timothy Dolan chaired the event, emphasizing the gathering's significance in bringing together influential figures across the political and social spectrum. Despite the evening's humorous overtones, the conversations also underscored deep national divisions and the personal dynamics among U.S. leaders.
In conclusion, Trump’s appearance at the Alfred E. Smith Foundation Dinner illustrated his continued influence and characteristic approach to political discourse.
Through jokes and jibes, he addressed serious political themes, reflecting on immigration, election anxieties, and personal safety while interacting notably with Schumer and commenting on Harris's absence. The event encapsulated a blend of political critique and personal acknowledgment among America’s leading political figures.