SNL Saturday Night Live Cold Open Skewers Trump’s Second Term: A Bold Return to Political Satire
Introduction: SNL Reclaims Its Political Comedy Crown
Saturday Night Live (SNL) is no stranger to political parody, and on May 4, 2025, the long-running NBC sketch comedy series returned with a cold open that lit up the political landscape. The sketch targeted Donald Trump’s second-term presidency, marking the 100-day milestone with biting satire, surreal humor, and classic SNL audacity. At the center was James Austin Johnson, whose uncanny Trump impression has become a cornerstone of recent seasons. This episode proved once again why SNL Saturday Night Live remains a powerful voice in American comedy.
A Cold Open Full of Political Absurdity
In typical SNL fashion, the cold open wasted no time lampooning Trump’s imagined new executive orders. These included exaggerated policies like banning women under 35 from dating older men and defending Christopher Columbus with cartoonish bravado. The outlandish tone underlined the surreal state of American politics as perceived by the show’s writers.
SNL’s Trump character was accompanied by a new portrayal of Stephen Miller, played by Mikey Day, adding another layer of comedic menace. The duo delivered punchlines that blurred the line between fiction and the bizarre realities of political news.
James Austin Johnson’s Trump: A Masterclass in Impression
Replacing Alec Baldwin’s iconic version, James Austin Johnson’s portrayal of Trump is more than just a caricature — it’s a nuanced satire. His rambling delivery, tangents, and obsession with pop culture references paint a chaotic yet familiar version of the former president.
What sets Johnson apart is his ability to mimic Trump’s unique speech patterns, making his lines feel improvised while still landing scripted jokes. His presence anchors the sketch, keeping the audience engaged through layered comedy and spot-on impersonation.
SNL’s Political Legacy: Why the Cold Open Still Matters
For nearly five decades, SNL Saturday Night Live has used political satire as a core feature. From Chevy Chase’s Gerald Ford to Tina Fey’s Sarah Palin and Baldwin’s Trump, the show has reflected and shaped public perception of political figures.
The May 2025 cold open fits neatly into this tradition. By exaggerating Trump’s policy ideas and media persona, the sketch doesn’t just entertain — it critiques power, highlights societal absurdities, and sparks conversations. It’s comedy with a purpose.
Cultural Commentary Through Comedy: Columbus, Rowling, and More
The cold open wasn’t just about Trump. It took aim at broader cultural flashpoints too. For instance, Trump’s character defended Columbus Day with over-the-top language, poking fun at the controversy surrounding historical figures in America.
The sketch also touched on the cultural divide surrounding author J.K. Rowling, referencing her public statements and aligning Trump’s support with satire about people clinging to “Harry Potter” houses well into adulthood. These references serve as a mirror to today’s internet culture and the tribalism in media discourse.
SNL Skewers Age-Gap Controversies: The “Belichick Law”
One of the most talked-about jokes from the cold open involved a fictional “Belichick Law,” a clear jab at NFL coach Bill Belichick’s rumored relationship with a significantly younger woman. SNL took this real-world scandal and magnified it into absurdity, imagining a Trump executive order banning women under 35 from dating older men.
The bit was not only hilarious, but also a commentary on the scrutiny public figures face and how personal lives become political fodder. The sketch walks a tightrope between exaggeration and truth, something SNL does better than almost any show.
Stephen Miller Returns: A Villain for the SNL Stage
Mikey Day’s version of Stephen Miller was a standout moment. The gaunt, eerie portrayal echoed Miller’s real-life reputation, complete with a deadpan demeanor and out-of-touch proclamations.
SNL Saturday Night Live has always excelled at turning controversial figures into memorable comedic characters. This version of Miller was no exception, acting as a perfect foil to Trump’s chaotic energy. Their back-and-forth added a sinister undercurrent to the comedic sketch, reminding viewers of the real-world stakes.
Audience Reaction: Viral Moments and Online Buzz
As with many of SNL’s politically charged sketches, social media lit up following the broadcast. Clips circulated quickly on Twitter, YouTube, and TikTok, with viewers praising the sharp writing and timely commentary.
Many fans appreciated the return to form, seeing it as a revival of SNL’s golden political sketches. Critics also noted that the show was more daring than in recent seasons, willing to be absurd without losing its point of view.
SNL’s Role in a Divided Media Landscape
SNL operates in a polarized media environment, where comedy often doubles as commentary. The Trump sketch illustrates how satire can cut through the noise and present political events in a digestible — if exaggerated — form.
By turning executive orders into comedy gold, SNL encourages its audience to question what’s real, what’s theater, and what truly affects their lives. This makes the show more than entertainment; it’s a cultural barometer.
From 1975 to 2025: 50 Years of Political Satire
As Saturday Night Live approaches its 50th anniversary, it continues to be a platform for cultural and political commentary. The show has evolved with the times but remains anchored in sketch comedy that reflects the American psyche.
The Trump 100 Days cold open is a reminder that even in its fifth decade, SNL can still be provocative, relevant, and hilariously bold.
Critics’ Take: Bold But Not Without Controversy
While many viewers applauded the sketch, some critics questioned whether the humor went too far or relied too heavily on real-world scandals. The balance between satire and sensitivity has always been delicate for SNL.
Nevertheless, the cold open succeeded in sparking discussion — a key measure of success for political comedy. It shows that SNL is willing to take risks and engage with controversial topics in ways that few other shows can.
The Future of SNL’s Trump Parody
As the 2024 presidential election aftermath unfolds, it’s likely we’ll see more of Trump on SNL, especially if he continues to be a political force. James Austin Johnson’s portrayal has laid the groundwork for ongoing sketches that evolve with the news.
With such a rich (and chaotic) source of material, the SNL writers are sure to keep finding new angles to explore — from campaign trail antics to courtroom drama.
Why SNL Saturday Night Live Still Matters in 2025
In a time when streaming content dominates and attention spans are shrinking, SNL remains a cultural staple. Its ability to adapt — to reflect political currents, social controversies, and media trends — keeps it at the forefront of sketch comedy.
The Trump 100 Days cold open wasn’t just a funny segment; it was proof that SNL can still make headlines, provoke thought, and bring people together in laughter — even when the subject matter is divisive.
Conclusion: Satire as Resistance, Humor as Healing
SNL Saturday Night Live’s May 2025 cold open reminded us why satire matters. It allows us to laugh at the chaos, process our reality, and maybe even understand it a little better. In an increasingly complex world, comedy like this is more than entertainment — it’s essential.