Kamala Harris on SNL: With just three days to go until Election Day 2024, Republican candidate Donald Trump and Democrat Vice President Kamala Harris are intensifying their campaigns in the Southern United States. Both candidates are focused on delivering their final messages to voters, aiming to sway opinions and rally support in this crucial region. As the countdown continues, their strategies and outreach efforts take center stage, underscoring the significance of these last moments in the lead-up to the election.
In a unique effort, Harris made an unexpected visit to New York City on Saturday to make a special appearance on the famous ‘Saturday Night Live’ show. After concluding an evening campaign event in Charlotte, North Carolina, Harris boarded Air Force Two, initially headed for Detroit. However, mid-flight, her aides announced a change in plans, and the plane redirected to LaGuardia Airport in Queens.
Harris was set to kick off the show’s cold open, as confirmed by her campaign. Her motorcade arrived at 30 Rockefeller Plaza shortly after 8 pm, allowing for a quick rehearsal before the live broadcast at 11:30 pm. This episode was particularly significant as it was the last SNL airing before Election Day on Tuesday. The musical guest for the night, pop star Chappell Roan, had publicly endorsed Harris back in September.
Actor Maya Rudolph, who first portrayed Harris on the show in 2019, has continued to bring her character to life this season, humorously referring to herself as ‘Momala’ – a term of endearment from her step children. In the season premiere, Rudolph quipped, “Well, well, well. Look who fell out of that coconut tree,” and has playfully commented on keeping President Joe Biden in check.
Additionally, Harris’ husband, second gentleman Doug Emhoff, has been depicted by former cast member Andy Samberg, while Dana Carvey plays Biden, known for his iconic portrayal of George HW Bush in the early 1990s. Rudolph’s portrayal has garnered praise from both critics and the vice president herself.
Harris remarked on her admiration for Rudolph’s “mannerisms,” highlighting the comedian’s skill in capturing her persona. Jason Miller, a senior advisor to former President Donald Trump and the current Republican nominee, voiced his astonishment at Harris’s decision to appear on SNL. When asked if Trump had received an invitation to appear, Miller replied, “I don’t know. Probably not.” Despite this, politicians have a longstanding relationship with SNL, including Trump, who hosted the show in 2015, though it’s uncommon for them to appear so close to Election Day.
(With Inputs from AP)