As the countdown to Election Day intensifies, Vice President Kamala Harris made a surprising detour from her rigorous campaigning schedule to indulge in some lighthearted moments on “Saturday Night Live” (SNL). This occasion marked the last episode before the elections, and Harris’s appearance was met with uproarious applause and excitement, reflecting the urgency and spirit of the ongoing election season. The Vice President graced Studio 8H at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, sharing the stage with Maya Rudolph, who has been celebrated for her comedic portrayal of Harris since 2020.
In a setting characterized by political discussions and intense debates, it was refreshing to see Harris embracing humor and relatability—two qualities that resonate well with the electorate. The skit cleverly opened with a somewhat predictable routine by Dana Carvey, Andy Samberg, and other SNL regulars. However, what transpired next was anything but conventional.
Rudolph’s character, embodying the Vice President, expresses her desire to connect with a peer who understands her unique challenges—a Black and Southeast Asian woman striving for the highest office in the land. This poignant setup prompted a clever twist as the real Kamala Harris appeared in the mirror to provide solidarity, declaring, “You and me both, sister.” This connection didn’t just serve as comic relief; it underscored the significance of representation and the complexities that come with it.
The ensuing banter included Harris cleverly taking aim at former President Donald Trump—specifically referencing his mishap with a garbage truck door. By asserting that her counterpart could win simply because she could open doors, Harris navigated the conversation seamlessly between humor and political critique, showcasing her ability to engage with current events while maintaining a light-hearted tone.
Rhymes and Revelry as a Political Strategy
The humor took a delightful turn as the two Kamalas exchanged puns and rhymes, transforming names and phrases into catchy quips like “pajamalas” and “Keep Calmala and Carry Onala.” This whimsical dialogue served a dual purpose: it entertained while also humanizing the candidates—reminding voters that behind the political persona, there are individuals capable of laughter and playfulness.
The skit culminated in a shared embrace, leading to the iconic phrase, “Live from New York, It’s Saturday Night!” which served as a perfect segue into the night’s host, John Mulaney. This memorable theatrical moment illustrated the heart of SNL: to blend entertainment with cultural commentary—a platform that is particularly potent during an election cycle.
Harris’s surprise appearance, coming on a day filled with campaign rallies, demonstrated a keen awareness of the pulse of the electorate. After a busy day speaking in Atlanta, the Vice President’s decision to divert her itinerary for this comedic outlet signifies not only dedication but also the effectiveness of humor as a campaign strategy. It resonates well with many voters who seek to connect with candidates on a personal level, beyond the typical rhetoric of political discourse.
In a landscape often saturated with serious dialogue, Kamala Harris’s appearance on SNL reminds us that politics can be engaging and relatable. As election fever escalates, moments like these provide a unique opportunity for candidates to stand out, making room for laughter in a scenario that all too often thrives on division.