Texas Democrat James Talarico, who recently won a state Senate seat, made an unexpected appearance on Saturday Night Live during a sketch that targeted Donald Trump. Talarico, a state representative and former teacher, appeared on the show days after his victory in the Texas Senate race, where he defeated Republican Ken Paxton.
In the skit, Talarico interrupted a scene featuring a comedian playing Trump, who was discussing recent Democratic election victories. Talarico introduced himself as "James Talarico, the guy who’s been texting you every day asking for five dollars." The comedian portraying Trump responded, "In this economy, who can blame you?"
Talarico, however, shifted the tone of the sketch, suggesting a willingness to work across party lines. "But I think, Mr President, if we can work together, we can make life better for everyday Americans. It’s clear people want something new. They want something different," he said. He then humorously critiqued the show's recurring cold-open format involving "Trump freezers."
Talarico's win in Texas was noted as a significant moment in the recent midterm elections, contributing to a broader wave of Democratic gains. The sketch also featured portrayals of House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, who were depicted celebrating the "blue tsunami" while playfully sidestepping questions about passing leadership to younger Democrats.
The comedian playing Trump also commented on election results and his future plans, humorously mentioning "ballroom" and expressing a reluctance to work with "millennials."