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.