At the recent Al Smith charity dinner in New York City, comedian Jim Gaffigan delivered a series of pointed jokes that highlighted the unusual mix of attendees, notably remarking that the seating arrangement was reminiscent of a game of Family Feud. Gaffigan did not shy away from roasting both Republican and Democratic figures present, including a jab at New York Attorney General Letitia James, who is known for her successful civil fraud case against Donald Trump.
“You know this seating arrangement is weird, right? It looks like the plutocrats are about to play Family Feud,” Gaffigan quipped, referring to the impressive and somewhat tense atmosphere of the event. He acknowledged James’s presence and her notable achievements, saying, “She’s just back there watching all of you… she’s watching.” While Gaffigan elicited smiles from James, Trump maintained a stoic expression.
The comedian didn’t hold back when touching on past controversies involving Trump, including his unfounded assertions about migrants. Gaffigan humorously stated, “During the first and only debate, President Trump talked about migrants taking cats and eating them,” which drew gasps from the audience. He further remarked, “If you’re keeping track at home, this is the second time grabbing a kitty has been part of a campaign issue,” causing Trump to shift uncomfortably in his seat.
Throughout the night, Gaffigan continued to roast various politicians, including Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and New York City Mayor Eric Adams. He addressed the legal troubles Adams is facing by joking, “I’d like to also welcome Mayor Adams, brought to you by Turkish Airlines.”
In response to Gaffigan’s set, Trump made a playful jab at the comedian, referencing his role on Saturday Night Live as Tim Walz, saying, “I hope that’ll be a very short gig, Jim.” Trump also noted Governor Walz’s absence and criticized Vice President Kamala Harris for skipping the gala to campaign in Wisconsin. In jest, he recalled, “I really hoped that she would come, because we can’t get enough of hearing her beautiful laugh.”
Harris did make an appearance through a video address, where she took a swipe at Trump’s refusal to concede the 2020 election and referenced his disparaging remarks about Detroit from a recent speech.