The most recent installment of “Saturday Night Live” kicked off with a witty political spoof of the New York City mayoral debate, featuring Miles Teller as former Governor Andrew Cuomo, Ramy Youssef as Assembly member Zohran Mamdani, and Shane Gillis as Curtis Sliwa, founder of the Guardian Angels.
Teller’s portrayal of Cuomo began with a playful nod to his past controversies, joking, “You all know me. I got us through COVID and then yada yada yada, honk honk, squeeze squeeze,” while miming a well-known gesture associated with his harassment accusations. He humorously added, “I’m a true New Yorker. I adore this city — I know it like the back of a woman’s back.”
The skit comically depicted the mispronunciations of Mamdani’s name, with Teller and Gillis’ characters consistently referring to him as “Zoltar Rob Zombie.”
Kenan Thompson took on the role of the debate moderator, asking, “Why would you want the worst job in the world?” Teller’s Cuomo replied, “As soon as you’re elected mayor, everyone immediately hates you. In that way, I’m already one step ahead.”
Ramy Youssef’s Mamdani delivered a standout moment by breaking the fourth wall to charm voters: “Hey girl, I know you’ve got a little white guilt for gentrifying that Spanish neighborhood. Vote for me — you’ll feel less bad about that chicken-and-rice shop turning into a Sweetgreen.”
The segment wrapped up with James Austin Johnson appearing as Donald Trump, crashing the debate and stating, “I may not reside in New York anymore, but I’m always watching — lurking in the shadows. Maybe I’ll consider adding New York mayor to my list of duties.”
The opening sketch received laughter for blending incisive political satire with classic SNL absurdity, showcasing another memorable addition to the show’s ongoing commentary on American politics.