Catholics are a significant portion of the population in battleground states like Pennsylvania and Arizona, where Vice President Kamala Harris' history of anti-Catholic political rhetoric could impact her at the polls. Former President Donald Trump is actively appealing to the Catholic voting bloc through supportive messages on social media platforms. Harris has faced criticism from the Catholic community for various remarks and actions, including skipping the 79th Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner in New York City.
The Al Smith dinner, a long-standing tradition, is a significant event during election cycles, where candidates historically engage in light-hearted banter. Harris chose to send a pre-recorded video to the event, which received negative feedback. Trump, on the other hand, attended the dinner and expressed surprise at Harris' absence.
The Catholic vote is crucial in battleground states like Pennsylvania, Nevada, Michigan, Arizona, and Wisconsin. The Catholic vote, once predominantly Democratic, is now split, with different subsets under the Catholic umbrella. President Biden won the Catholic vote in 2020, while Trump secured it in 2016.
Harris has faced criticism for her past actions, including questioning judicial nominees over their membership in the Knights of Columbus, a Catholic fraternal organization. The Catholic Church's stance on abortion and marriage has clashed with Harris' line of questioning. Her campaign also faced backlash for a video involving Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, seen as mocking the Holy Eucharist.
Experts suggest that Harris' approach towards Catholics could impact her support among different subsets of the Catholic community. The upcoming election will likely see a focus on appealing to Catholic voters in key battleground states.
