‘SNL’ Cold Open Tackles New York Politics, Trump‘s Perceived self-Obsession
New York – Saturday Night Live‘s latest cold open blended local politics with the ever-present specter of Donald Trump, highlighting the New York Assembly race of Zohran Mamdani and the former president’s perceived preoccupation with himself. The sketch aired on the fourth episode of SNL’s 51st season, hosted by Teller and featuring musical guest Brandi Carlile.
The cold open featured cast member James Austin Johnson portraying Donald Trump, referencing his past residency in New York. Trump, in the sketch, dismissed substantive issues like housing and taxes, declaring, “This election is about housing and taxes, but we all know it’s about me, right?” The sketch also included a nod too Mamdani, a New York assemblyman, with a playful imitation of his campaign messaging. “Once you vote for me, you know you’ll feel a little less bad about that chicken and rice shop getting turned into a Sweetgreen, so why don’t you hit me up on the ballot box, girl?” the sketch paraphrased.
The segment, while topical, was described as “forgettable” by Deadline, but underscored a common theme in american political discourse – the outsized influence of personality and media attention. Upcoming episodes of SNL will feature Nikki Glaser as host on November 15, alongside musical guest Glen Powell, and will include thanksgiving and Christmas specials later this year, as previously reported by Deadline.
