After wrapping up visits to two critical battleground states on Saturday, Vice President Kamala Harris made a surprising appearance on Saturday Night Live in New York City. During the show’s cold open, Harris joined Maya Rudolph, who regularly portrays her on the show. In the opening sketch, Rudolph (as Harris) expressed a desire to talk to someone who understands her position, prompting the real vice president to appear in the mirror, dressed identically. Harris offered words of encouragement, highlighting Harris’s ability to open doors, a subtle dig at Donald Trump’s recent mishap with a garbage truck door on the campaign trail.
The comedic duo continued to banter, with Rudolph playfully referring to Harris as “palm-ala” and emphasizing the American people’s desire for stability and an end to chaos. The skit incorporated humor and camaraderie between the two women, culminating in a call-and-response mantra of “Keep calm-ala, and carry on-ala,” much to the delight of the audience. The light-hearted exchange also featured a moment where Rudolph teased Harris about her laughter, showcasing a fun and relatable dynamic between the two.
The episode was hosted by actor and comedian John Mulaney, with Chappell Roan serving as the musical guest. While political figures have made appearances on SNL in the past, Harris’s last-minute visit stands out as a rare occurrence so close to the election. This unexpected move aligns with Harris’s broader strategy of engaging with voters on a national platform in the final days leading up to the election.
Harris’s SNL cameo follows other high-profile endorsements in recent days, including inviting rapper Cardi B to speak at a Wisconsin rally and receiving support from Jennifer Lopez at a Las Vegas event. These efforts underscore Harris’s commitment to connecting with diverse audiences and leveraging popular culture to amplify her message. By embracing opportunities for humor and entertainment, Harris continues to showcase her versatility and relatability as a political figure on the national stage.
Overall, Harris’s appearance on Saturday Night Live served as a lighthearted yet impactful moment in the midst of a heated election season. The skit not only highlighted Harris’s ability to connect with voters in a unique way but also demonstrated her willingness to engage in unconventional platforms to share her vision for the country’s future. As the election draws near, Harris’s presence on SNL adds a touch of humor and humanity to the political discourse, resonating with audiences beyond traditional campaign rallies and speeches.
