Tim Kaine, the Democratic Senator from Virginia and Hillary Clinton’s vice presidential running mate in 2016, made a surprise appearance on “Saturday Night Live” on the cusp of the 2024 presidential election.
Kaine stumped “SNL” host John Mulaney in a quiz show sketch “What’s That Name: Election Edition,” when Mulaney’s character was challenged to identify him.
“You voted for me to be one heartbeat away from the Oval Office in an election more recent than the release of ‘Zootopia.’ What’s my name?” Kaine said.
Mulaney in character as quiz show contestant Ben gave a flustered reply and pointed to the similiarites between Kaine and the current Democratic VP contender, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz: “It’s not my fault. If he was a more memorable guy like Tim Walz. This is very much a guy like Tim Walz. Let’s see them side by side. Not only does he look exactly like Tim Walz, his name was also Tim. Really, his name was Tim.”
Kaine retorted: “My name is still Tim. I exist. I’m a senator representing Virginia.”
The sketch also featured “SNL” regular as a contestant identified as “Margaret.” By the close if the sketch it was revealed she was playing Canadian author Margaret Atwood, known for the influential dystopian novel “The Handmaid’s Tale.”
Mulaney’s character is frustrated when he’s challenged to name a victim of police brutality other than George Floyd. He turns on “What’s That Name” host played by Michael Longfellow to criticize the show. “Why don’t you use your platform to go after the real problem? Do you realize if Donald Trump wins, we are going to be living in a real life version of ‘The Handmaid’s Tale.’ “
Sherman as Atwood then interjects: “I’m sorry to interrupt…If you’d read that book, you’d see that we’re basically halfway there.” As Mulaney’s Ben tries to dismiss the comment, the host explains “This woman is the author of ‘The Handmaid’s Tale.’ “
The Nov. 2 episode marks Mulaney’s sixth time hosting NBC’s late-night mainstay. In 2022, the comedian was inducted into the show’s elite “Five-Timers Club” for those who have hosted the show five or more times.
Mulaney worked at “SNL” from 2008 through 2013 as a writer. He made few on-air appearances during that time. His first came in April 2010 on “Weekend Update” in which he advocated for year-round Girl Scout cookie sales.
Over the years Mulaney has become known for appearing in such sketches as “Diner Lobster,” “Subway Churro,” “Airport Sushi,” and “Cha Cha Slide,” per NBC.
Mulaney’s star has climbed over the past decade thanks to a series of successful comedy specials for Netflix, including “Everybody’s in LA” and “Baby J.”
Watch the sketch below.
