Melania Trump will accompany the former president Donald Trump Al Smith dinner in New York on Thursday, two sources familiar with his plans told NBC News.
The former first lady has been conspicuously absent from the campaign trail for much of the 2024 race. The Republican National Convention in Milwaukee in July was the last time she and her husband attended a political event.
A source familiar with the plans said Melania Trump decided to attend the dinner because “it’s tradition,” adding that “it could be a harbinger of more activity.”
The annual dinner benefiting Catholic Charities is a $5,000-per-plate event that traditionally dates back to the 1960s, featuring presidential candidates from both sides of the aisle.
In late September, a campaign aide to Kamala Harris confirmed the vice president would not attend the dinner, saying he would instead campaign in key battleground states.
The move upset Cardinal Timothy Dolan, who recruited prominent New York Democrats to persuade Harris to change his mind, according to four people familiar with the matter.
Melania Trump’s planned presence comes as she does She is promoting her new book “Melania”. a memoir that has gained attention in recent weeks for its outspoken stance on abortion seems contradictory with her husband’s position on matters.
Julie Tsirkin, Peter Alexander and Lindsey Pipia contributed.