### "The View" Hosts Criticize Al Smith Dinner for Inviting Trump

The hosts of "The View" expressed their disapproval of the Al Smith dinner's decision to invite former President Donald Trump, suggesting that the event should have deviated from tradition by excluding him. The Al Smith dinner, which is highly regarded during election campaigns, typically sees politicians from both parties come together to share humorous exchanges and raise funds for women's and children's charities.

Despite both presidential candidates being invited, only Trump attended in person, while Vice President Kamala Harris sent a pre-recorded video, prioritizing her campaign efforts in Wisconsin. Ana Navarro, one of the show's co-hosts, openly criticized the event during a recent episode, pointing out the irony of inviting Trump to a dinner that aids immigrants. Navarro expressed relief that Harris chose not to attend the event.

Named after former New York Governor Alfred E. Smith, the dinner honors the first Catholic U.S. presidential candidate from a major party, who lost to Republican Herbert Hoover in 1928. At this year's event, many of Trump's jokes targeted Harris, including a quip about her receiving communion from Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

Co-host Sunny Hostin condemned Trump's presence at the dinner, arguing that his values clash with those of the Catholic faith. Hostin stated that traditions sometimes need to be broken, especially to avoid honoring someone she described as a "felon, a liar, a serial cheater." She went further to criticize Trump's personal life, notably his infidelity.

Melania Trump, who has been largely absent from the campaign trail, accompanied her husband to the dinner. Her presence drew attention, particularly when comedian Jim Gaffigan referenced Trump's controversial Hollywood Access tape, prompting reactions from the audience.

Co-host Sara Haines offered a differing perspective, asserting that as the leading Republican candidate, Trump deserved an invitation to the event. She argued that excluding him could send the wrong message and suggested that he should be allowed to speak for himself.

Trump even took the opportunity to humorously critique "The View," suggesting the show needed Rosie O'Donnell back to improve its quality. His remark was just one of many attempts to lighten the atmosphere at the event, despite the underlying tensions noted by members of "The View."