One of the friendlier traditions of our presidential election years is the Al Smith dinner, at which, typically, the two major candidates appear with the archbishop of New York and deliver comical speeches, with a mix of partisan ribbing and self-deprecation.

Harris is the first nominee in 40 years to turn down the invitation. Semafor political reporter Dave Weigel finds her decision somewhat inexplicable, in that most everyone comes out of this event looking better.

Even though the vast majority of the “event” is scripted, I think it is obvious that Harris is disinclined to attend because she is genuinely trying to avoid unforced errors and exposure in uncontrolled environments. She is just too insecure.