Vice President Kamala Harris surprised audiences by making an appearance on the latest episode of “Saturday Night Live” just before the upcoming election. Joining actress Maya Rudolph, who typically portrays her on the show, Harris brought a light-hearted but pointed message to the political landscape.
During the sketch, Rudolph’s character expressed a desire for advice from someone with similar experience. To her surprise, the real Vice President Harris appeared in a mirror, donning the same attire and offering encouragement: “You got this,” she declared. “Because you can do something your opponent cannot do: You can open doors.” This line cleverly referenced a recent mishap involving Donald Trump, who struggled to open a garbage truck door during a campaign event.
The sketch continued with playful banter between the two, with Harris playfully riffing along and emphasizing the need to “end the dram-ala” while they both humorously declared to “keep calm-ala, and carry on-ala,” delighting the audience.
John Mulaney hosted the episode, with a musical performance from Chappell Roan. In another notable moment, Virginia Senator Tim Kaine made a surprise appearance in a game show sketch where he humorously referenced his time as Hillary Clinton’s vice presidential running mate.
Harris’s participation comes amidst her active campaign schedule, as she balances appearances in key battleground states. Her appearance was met with mixed reactions, particularly from Trump’s campaign adviser, Jason Miller, who called it “crazy” given the show’s perceived ridicule of her this season.
Despite the criticisms, Harris has previously expressed her admiration for Rudolph’s impersonation, affirming her talent in capturing the nuances of her personality and style.
In recent years, “SNL” has served as a cultural touchstone for political candidates, providing them with a platform to engage with the electorate. Past appearances by candidates demonstrate the show’s long-standing influence and its unique role in American campaigns.
This appearance by Harris not only highlights her readiness to connect with voters in a relaxed and entertaining format but also serves as a reminder of the significance of humor in political discourse. As the election approaches, such moments can help lighten the tense atmosphere surrounding the campaign, fostering a dialogue that resonates with viewers.
Overall, Harris’s presence on “SNL” emphasizes the value of engagement with a broader audience and may inspire hope and connection among constituents looking for light in the midst of a competitive election season.