candidates. jeff zeleny looks back. >> it's a ritual stop on the road to the white house. a place where democrats -- >> i went shopping at some stores in midtown. i understand governor romney went shopping for some stores in midtown. >> and republicans. >> it's nice to finally relax and to wear what ann and i wear around the house. >> reporter: have long come together for a night of comedy and comity. the annual al smith dinner in new york has drawn presidents and aspiring ones. in years gone by, there's far more self-deprecating satire. >> this is an impressive crowd. the haves and the have-mores. some people call you the elite. i call you my base. >> reporter: then score-settling. >> i can't shake that feeling that some people here are pulling for me.