Letters: VP Kamala Harris did not attend the Al Smith charity dinner

The Issue: Vice President Harris’s absence from the annual Al Smith charity dinner held in New York.

Vice President Harris was notably absent from the annual Al Smith Dinner in New York. This event is held to raise funds for Catholic charities, and the Catholic church is the largest single church in America, making its members influential in presidential elections.

Historically, many presidential candidates have attended this event regardless of their faith. However, Harris chose not to attend, possibly due to her focus on her presidential campaign.

During her time in the Senate, Harris questioned a judicial nominee, Brian Buescher, about his affiliation with the Knights of Columbus, a Catholic charitable organization. This incident highlighted Harris’s opposition to the organization’s pro-life stance and the Catholic Church’s views on pro-life issues.

Frederick Bedell Jr.

Bellerose

Harris’s absence from the Al Smith dinner was seen as disrespectful to Catholics across the country, as the event plays a significant role in supporting Catholic charities in New York. By skipping the dinner, Harris was criticized for being unable to take a joke about herself and showing weakness.

Mindy Rader

New City

Comparisons were drawn to former President Donald Trump attending the iconic event, raising questions about Harris’s priorities and commitments. Despite claims of a busy schedule due to campaigning, many felt Harris could have made an appearance to show respect for the tradition, especially as the first presidential candidate to skip the dinner in years.

John Amato

Fresh Meadows

Harris’s absence from important events like the Al Smith Dinner and declining invitations to address Congress suggest a focus on specific voter demographics, such as Muslims in Michigan and Minnesota. Her lack of public discussion about her religious beliefs has led to accusations of pursuing a solely secular agenda.

Mike Santavicca

Yonkers

The Issue: The death of former One Direction member Liam Payne after a fall in Argentina.

The tragic news of former One Direction member Liam Payne’s death following a fall in Argentina has saddened many. Speculation about the circumstances surrounding his fall suggests possible involvement of drugs or alcohol, highlighting the importance of safety measures at events where vulnerable individuals may be present.

To prevent such incidents in the future, it’s crucial for event organizers to create secure environments and implement safety measures to protect attendees from potential harm, such as falls from balconies.

John Early

Throggs Neck

Reflecting on Payne’s untimely death, some have criticized his alleged drug use and reckless behavior, emphasizing personal responsibility in avoiding such dangerous situations. The tragic outcome of drug abuse serves as a reminder of the selfishness and consequences of substance misuse.

Storm Destro

Bayonne, NJ

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