Donald Trump took center stage at the Al Smith Dinner on Thursday, using humor to address topics such as immigration, transgender issues, and political opponents. The event, a longstanding tradition during election years, featured Trump making jokes while sharing the stage with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer.
Trump commented on Schumer’s demeanor, suggesting, “Looking very 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.” He also made a remark referencing Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, saying, “I used to think that Democrats were crazy for saying that men have periods. But then I met Tim Walz.”
Accusing Vice President Kamala Harris of disrespecting the dinner by not attending, Trump criticized her for sending a video greeting instead of being present. In the past, candidates from both parties have taken a lighter approach at this event. Trump noted, “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.”
Typically, both candidates use such occasions to engage in self-deprecating humor. However, Trump’s remarks veered from tradition, as he humorously stated, “Tradition holds that I am supposed to tell a few self-deprecating jokes this evening. So here it goes. Nope. I’ve got nothing.” This drew laughter from the audience, particularly when he added about not taking shots at himself since “other people have been shooting at me for a hell of a long time.”
He continued with a jab regarding the event’s emcee, Jim Gaffigan, who is currently portraying Walz on Saturday Night Live, saying, “That will be a very short gig, I hope Jim. But it was fun while it lasted.” Trump also touched on his campaign themes related to the border, joking about New York City Mayor Eric Adams needing the evening to be expedited due to “a large group of illegal aliens coming in from Texas.”
Trump made reference to Adams’ recent indictment, connecting it to his own legal troubles and remarked, “But you are going to win. I think so.” While some jokes earned laughs, others resulted in awkward silence, particularly those referencing former President Barack Obama and criticisms of the media.
During the event, Gaffigan took the opportunity to roast Trump, stating, “During the first and only debate, President Trump talked about migrants taking cats and eating them.” This commentary drew mixed reactions from the audience, with some groans accompanying his humor. Gaffigan acknowledged the awkwardness, admitting, “I was going to leave that out.”