Summary
Former President Donald Trump headlined the annual Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner in New York City, where he entertained the audience with humor while also taking jabs at his political opponents, including New York Mayor Eric Adams and Vice President Kamala Harris. Harris, who chose to campaign in Wisconsin instead of attending the event in person, made a virtual appearance that included a comedic interruption by actress Molly Shannon, reprising her character Mary Katherine Gallagher.
The Alfred E. Smith Dinner is a long-standing tradition that typically features candidates from both major parties engaging in light-hearted banter and showcasing their ability to connect with a broader audience. This year, Trump used the platform not only to roast Adams, who is facing federal charges, but also to criticize Harris for her absence, suggesting it reflected poorly on her campaign. Harris, in her virtual address, emphasized themes of unity and charity, while also engaging in playful banter with Shannon, who humorously suggested topics for her speech. The event, which raises money for Catholic charities, served as a backdrop for both candidates to showcase their personalities as they approach the final weeks of the election campaign.
Is Your New IT Guy A North Korean Spy?–Cyber Operatives Escalate From Espionage To Extortion
Oct. 18 / Forbes / Presents a detailed account of Molly Shannon's humorous interruption during Harris's virtual speech, adding a unique comedic element to the event. The article captures the blend of politics and entertainment effectively. “ North Korea's persistent cyber operations have taken a sinister new turn. Once content with simply infiltrating Western companies with fake IT workers to...
Oct. 18 / The Hollywood Reporter / Focuses on Trump's roast of Eric Adams, providing a glimpse into the comedic atmosphere of the dinner. It emphasizes the political implications of Trump's remarks, making it relevant to the election context. “ A special guest made a surprise appearance during ‘ virtual speech at the annual Al Smith charity dinner Thursday night. The vice president chose to skip the...
China economy slowdown deepens, official figures show
Oct. 18 / The Bbc / Reports on China's economic challenges, offering insight into global issues that may affect the U.S. election landscape. While not directly related, it provides context for voters’ concerns about economic stability. “ China's economic slowdown deepened in the three months to the end of September, as the country struggles to boost flagging growth. Gross domestic product...
Raytheon To Pay Over $950 Million In Settlement Over Fraud, Qatari Bribery, And Export Violations
Oct. 18 / Zerohedge / Highlights Trump's comedic performance at the Al Smith Dinner, showcasing his ability to engage an audience while delivering sharp jabs at political opponents. The humor adds a lighthearted touch to the campaign narrative. “ Authored by Tom Ozimek via The Epoch Times (emphasis ours), Raytheon, a subsidiary of defense contractor RTX, has agreed to pay more than $950 million to...
Trump Roasts Eric Adams at Al Smith Dinner: 'Good Luck With Everything'
Oct. 18 / Newsweek / Explores the implications of Harris's absence from the dinner, highlighting the break from tradition. The article effectively discusses the reactions to her virtual appearance, adding layers to the narrative. “ Former President Donald Trump drew huge laughs Thursday night when he roasted New York mayor Eric Adams while headlining the Alfred E. Smith Memorial...
Trump speaks at Al Smith charity dinner with Melania while Harris appears virtually
Oct. 18 / Kcra / Examines Trump's comedic style at the dinner, contrasting it with past performances. The article provides context for understanding his campaign approach, making it relevant for political observers. “ NEW YORK — Former President Donald Trump traded the rally stage for comedy Thursday night as he headlined the annual Al Smith charity dinner, where he was...
Who Is Prabowo Subianto, the Former General Who Becomes Indonesia’s New President?
Oct. 18 / Usnews / Highlights the complex political landscape surrounding Prabowo Subianto's presidency, offering insights into his controversial past and potential future policies, making it a significant piece for understanding Indonesia's direction. “ JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) — A wealthy ex-general with ties to both Indonesia’s popular outgoing president and the country's dictatorial past will be...
Will Kamala Harris be a climate champion?
Oct. 17 / The Week / Analyzes Harris's climate policy stance, revealing shifts in her messaging. While it diverges from the dinner's focus, it highlights broader campaign issues that could influence voter decisions. “ Climate change has long been a core priority for Democrats in national elections, with the party's voters much more likely than Republicans to believe that...
Walz says 90-year-old mom lives off social security check during North Carolina rally
Oct. 18 / Fox News / Details Walz's personal appeal during his campaign, focusing on his mother's reliance on Social Security. This humanizing element adds depth to his candidacy, making him relatable to voters. “ Nationally syndicated radio host Dana Loesch reacts to a video of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz attempting to load his shotgun on 'The Ingraham Angle.' On the...
Trump says if elected, he would settle the war in Ukraine before his inauguration
Oct. 18 / Wcpo / Discusses Trump's controversial comments on the Ukraine war, revealing his approach to foreign policy in the election. The piece connects his remarks to broader campaign themes, enhancing its relevance. “ Vice President Kamala Harris continued her focus on Great Lakes battleground states she hopes will deliver her the White House. Today the focus was in...
Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon Endorses Harris-Walz: ‘I’ve Been Feeling Patriotic’
Oct. 9 / Rolling Stone / Captures the excitement and unity surrounding Harris's campaign through Vernon’s personal anecdotes, providing a compelling narrative that emphasizes the cultural impact of the election beyond traditional politics. “ Since Kamala Harris stepped up as the candidate to face off with Donald Trump in November, she’s sparked a wildly energetic response from the music world....
Tim Walz returning to Wisconsin Monday for stops in Eau Claire, Green Bay
Oct. 10 / Yahoo! News / Covers Harris's campaign efforts in Wisconsin, emphasizing her strategy to engage battleground states. The article provides useful context for understanding the dynamics of the election campaign. “ Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, the Democratic vice presidential nominee, will return to Wisconsin Monday to campaign in Eau Claire and Green Bay. Walz's visit will...