​79th Al Smith Charity Dinner: Trump delivers pointed yet bitter speech, attends gala with Melania

The 79th Alfred E Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner, a prestigious charity event, brought together leaders and dignitaries to raise funds for women and children in need. Donald Trump was among the key attendees, delivering a humour-filled speech. (Image source: NYT)

Donald Trump, alongside former first lady Melania Trump, arrived for the 79th annual Alfred E Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner. The couple made a striking entrance, with Trump set to address the crowd as the Republican presidential nominee for the 2024 election. (Image source: AP)

Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the event’s host, was seen alongside Donald Trump and his wife Melania Trump during the dinner. The trio's appearance underscored the event’s significance, which traditionally blends politics, humour, and philanthropy. (Image source: NYT)

Donald Trump engaged in conversation with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer during the dinner. The interaction between the two prominent political figures added to the evening’s significance, highlighting the mix of political rivalry and civility that the event fosters. (Image source: AP)

House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana and Michael Bloomberg arrived for the dinner, adding to the diverse roster of influential attendees. The presence of both political and business leaders reinforced the event’s role as a key networking occasion for America’s elite. (Image source: AP)

Robert F Kennedy Jr, a notable figure, also made his way to the 79th annual Alfred E Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner. His arrival marked another highlight in an evening filled with political heavyweights. (Image source: AP)

New York City Mayor Eric Adams and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo were among the attendees at the prestigious dinner. Their presence, along with other high-profile figures, underscored the importance of the event in the political calendar. (Image source: AP)

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer shared a light moment with Cardinal Timothy Dolan, while Donald Trump looked on. The candid interaction reflected the dinner’s atmosphere, where political leaders set aside their differences for charity. (Image source: AP)

Cardinal Timothy Dolan was seen hosting Donald Trump and Melania Trump at the Dinner. The couple shared the spotlight with Cardinal Dolan as they conversed with political and business leaders. Trump, known for his unfiltered style, added levity to the evening with jokes targeting Democratic leadership, while also praising some of his political rivals in an unusual display of bipartisan camaraderie. (Image source: NYT)

US Vice President Kamala Harris was notably absent from the event, the first presidential candidate in years to skip it. However, she sent a pre-recorded video featuring comedian Molly Shannon, who portrayed her famous character, Mary Katherine Gallagher, in a humorous segment. (Image source: X/@JohnCremeansUSA)

Donald Trump spoke near Senator Chuck Schumer during the evening. Known for his humour, Trump made a blunt appeal to voters by saying, "Catholics, you've got to vote for me. You better remember: I'm here, and she's not," referencing Kamala Harris' absence. (Image source: NYT)