The jokes aside, two thoughts ran through my mind as I watched General Mattis* deliver his speech.
1. The man is a patriot.
2. Is this a kick-off to a political run.
While the purpose of the Al Smith Dinner is to raise funds for Catholic charities, its connection to politics is legendary. The selection of the keynote speaker can be a signal of change in the political climate as well as an opportunity for those who step up to the dais to get in front of the wealthy and politically connected of New York , you know, those who are helpful with the expertise and money necessary to run for national political office. Last year's speaker was Ambassador Nikki Haley and 2017's was then Speaker Paul Ryan. Next year, if tradition holds, it will be the two presidential candidates (unless there would be something about the policies or actions of either, usually the Democrat and often related to abortion, that displeases the Archdiocese).
General Mattis has previously, on a few occasions, stated that he has no intention of running for president, however if that holds true, it is starting to appear that he may have no compunction about being a thorn in the side of President Trump's re-election bid.
* Even though, in the American custom, General Mattis would be entitled to use the more senior courtesy title of "Secretary Mattis", it seems that, unlike some of the former generals who served in cabinet posts, most media outlets continue to use "General" as his title.