In remarks that were sharp and biting, former President Donald Trump turned his fire toward Vice President Kamala Harris Thursday night during the annual Al Smith Dinner in New York, underscoring the growing tensions between the two heading into the 2024 election. Trump, who is leading in the Republican presidential primary, used the event to attack Harris on her record and dismiss her leadership, calling her a “disaster” for the country.
His remarks came as Harris crisscrossed Wisconsin following a response to Trump’s claims of being the “father of IVF,” or in vitro fertilization. In recent weeks, Trump has been referencing his work to move reproductive health forward when speaking. Harris had no qualms at all when ridiculing the claims Trump has made on the subject, which he did at a rally in Milwaukee.
“Now he’s the father of IVF? That’s news to the scientists and doctors who’ve worked on that for decades, Harris said with a chuckle as the crowd applauded. “This is the same person who’s still not sure about climate change, but sure, let’s give him credit for that too,” she wisecracked as she further criticized Trump’s record on healthcare and reproductive rights.
This election comes at high stakes, as Trump continues his efforts to return to the White House, making increasingly charged rhetoric part of that battle. Harris has been one of the most targeted figures by Republicans in their quest to defeat President Biden, so her swing through battleground states such as Wisconsin is an indication of efforts to shore up support for the Biden-Harris, especially among women and minorities.
At the Al Smith Dinner, a longtime charity gala also known for its use of political one-liners, Trump dished more brickbats at other big-name politicians but saved his most cutting words for Harris. “She’s been a complete failure,” Trump said, tossing in for good measure that “we need real leadership, not someone who spends all their time making speeches.”
Thursday’s jostle marked the beginning of what promises to be a heated campaign trail as both camps gear up for a contentious election season.
