Trump Enters NYC Mayoral Debate in Surprise ‘SNL’ Appearance
President Donald Trump made an unexpected appearance during a recent episode of Saturday Night Live, crashing a mock New York City mayoral debate. Portrayed by James Austin Johnson, Trump interrupted the debate to emphasize his continued relevance in the political landscape. The candidates at the debate included Ramy Youssef as Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani, former SNL cast member Shane Gillis as Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa, and host Miles Teller portraying former governor Andrew Cuomo.
As the debate moderator, Kenan Thompson asked the candidates about the biggest issues they would face as mayor, Johnson’s Trump interjected dramatically, declaring, “It’s me!” He further asserted, “Yes, they can pretend this election is about housing and taxes, but we all know it’s about me, right?” His comments highlighted Trump’s belief that he remains a central figure in New York politics, even after moving out of the city.
Trump’s appearance was marked by playful jabs at both Sliwa and Mamdani. He criticized Sliwa’s iconic “Emily in Paris-looking hat,” which is part of Sliwa’s signature style as the founder of the Guardian Angels. Additionally, he questioned Mamdani’s youth, asserting, “He’s too young to lead, folks. He doesn’t have the wobbly walk or, frankly, the mind I have.” The lighthearted banter included a reference to his own cognitive abilities, with Johnson’s Trump claiming, “I took a cognitive test, I did so well on my cognitive test that they immediately gave me an MRI.”
Earlier this week, Trump revealed that his latest medical checkup included an MRI, although officials have not disclosed further details regarding his health. He continued his playful tone, warning the candidates, “I may not live in New York anymore, but I’m always watching.” He likened himself to the Phantom of the Opera, adding, “Lurking in the shadows, much like the late, great, Phantom of the Opera.”
In a theatrical turn, Johnson’s Trump concluded the segment by singing lines from “The Music of the Night” from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom of the Opera. The episode highlighted Trump’s ongoing influence in the political arena, particularly as the candidates prepare for the upcoming election on November 7, 2023.
Trump has not held back his opinions on the candidates, labeling frontrunner Mamdani a communist and cautioning him to “do the right thing” as mayor. He suggested that failing to do so could jeopardize New York’s financial support. Furthermore, Trump refrained from endorsing Sliwa, questioning his Republican credentials and playfully wondering if he would transform Gracie Mansion into a “home for the cats.”
This unexpected cameo during the SNL debate serves as a reminder of Trump’s enduring presence in American politics, drawing attention to the upcoming election and the characters vying for a pivotal role in New York City’s leadership.
