Time-Traveler Trump on SNL Sparks Debate Over America’s Ideals

In a remarkable confluence of past and present, the latest episode of “Saturday Night Live” took audiences on an unexpected journey — a journey that juxtaposed Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Alexander Hamilton with a modern-day twist. The cold open on January 25th began amidst the echoing halls of American history, at the signing of the Declaration of Independence, only to be abruptly invaded by a whimsical time-traveling “King” Donald Trump, portrayed by the ever-capable James Austin Johnson.

Miranda, stepping into the boots of Hamilton, his iconic Broadway alter-ego, delivered a stirring soliloquy, rich with the ideals of liberty and equality. “In America, we will never have a king,” he asserted, a nod to the very essence of the republic. But in true SNL fashion, this reverent moment was humorously interrupted by Johnson’s flamboyant Trump, who wryly quipped, “Never say never! Kidding, of course, though in many ways, I’m not.”

This surreal blend of history and satire continued with playful jabs at recent political scenes. With ribbing commentary on former President Trump’s inauguration—held indoors for reasons jocularly attributed to “cold and fear”—the skit highlighted Melania Trump’s fashion choices with a sharp comparison to Kung Lao from “Mortal Kombat.”

And then there was Elon Musk—SNL’s ever-green subject of satire. Weekend Update host Michael Che zeroed in on Musk’s controversial salute, humorously dismissing any Nazi affiliation yet taking the opportunity for a tongue-in-cheek nod to Volkswagen’s historical roots — “The Nazis made nice cars.”

Miranda, finding it difficult to maintain his composure, was humorously mocked by Johnson’s Trump for being “in sniffing distance of an EGOT” and yet left “frozen” as he delivered his monologue. The sketch cleverly played with the dynamics of performance, leaving Miranda waiting to unleash his rap — a meta-commentary on restraint and anticipation.

The episode, helmed by host Timothée Chalamet, who also performed an eclectic mix of Bob Dylan tunes, maintained the show’s legacy of being both a platform for variety and a mirror to the cultural zeitgeist. Chalamet’s earnest monologue expressed gratitude for SNL’s ongoing eccentricities, hinting at the blend of jest and genuine appreciation that makes the show a cornerstone of American comedy.

SNL’s daring take on blending the venerable Hamilton with current political figures is more than just a comedic sketch — it’s a reflection on the cyclical nature of power and the American narrative itself. In challenging times, it seems, a dose of humor is as vital as ever.