Trump Visits Bronx Barbershop Before Al Smith Dinner: Is He Trying to Win Over Voters?

Trump Makes a Stop in the Bronx

Former President Donald Trump made a surprise visit to a barbershop in the Bronx on Thursday, just before his scheduled appearance at the Al Smith dinner in Midtown Manhattan.

While Trump didn't get a haircut himself, he took the opportunity to speak with customers and employees of the King of Knockouts barbershop in Castle Hill. The campaign shared video of him talking with shop regulars and the owner, as well as his father.

The visit, which was heavily guarded with security measures, including sharpshooters on the roof of the building, seemed like an attempt to capitalize on the modest gains Trump has made with men of color this election season.

A Protester's Attempt

However, the event was not without controversy. Before Trump's arrival, a protester was taken into custody for attempting to light a banner on fire outside the barbershop. The security zone was not breached, and Trump was not present at the time of the incident.

There were also heated exchanges between those who support Trump and those who oppose him.

Al Smith Dinner and Vice President Harris

The Al Smith dinner is an annual charity event that brings together presidential candidates from both parties. However, this year, Vice President Kamala Harris is skipping the event to focus on her campaign in Wisconsin, making her the first invited presidential candidate in 40 years to decline the invitation. A recorded message from her will be played in her place.

The event's host, Cardinal Timothy Dolan, expressed his disappointment that Harris would not be attending in person.

Trump's Previous Appearance at the Dinner

Trump faced criticism in 2016 after his speech at the Al Smith dinner, with some accusing him of going too far with humor. He made a comment on stage about Hillary Clinton "pretending not to hate Catholics." He has also accused Harris of snubbing Catholics.

Cardinal Dolan clarified that the Al Smith dinner is not a Catholic event, but a bipartisan event intended to bring the two sides together.