The Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner, a historic white-tie event traditionally attended by major party presidential candidates, raises money for Catholic charities. The annual event in New York City also features humorous pokes and jokes about politicians, especially during election season.

Former President Donald Trump confirmed in a Truth Social post on Monday that he would attend the event next month and that “it's sad but not surprising that Kamala has decided not to attend,” before saying that Harris “certainly hasn't been very nice” to Catholics. Harris' absence is seen as a break with decades-long tradition as her campaign team seeks to maximize time in swing states as much as possible, according to CNN.

What is the Al Smith Dinner?

The Al Smith Dinner is an annual fundraiser in New York City that benefits Catholic charities and children in need. Named after the first Catholic president to run for president, it is widely considered to be one of the last events at which two major party presidential candidates meet before the election.