Maya Rudolph's Kamala Harris Struggles with VP Candidates' 'Vibes' in 'SNL' Debate Spoof

Maya Rudolph and the ensemble of political impersonators for the 2024 election cycle graced the stage of Studio 8H in New York once again on Saturday, featuring in the latest installment of "Saturday Night Live." They parodied last Tuesday's vice-presidential debate in the opening sketch.

Rudolph, portraying Kamala Harris, was accompanied by Andy Samberg as Harris's spouse, Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, to launch the skit. The duo settled into a cozy home setting, poured themselves wine, and tuned in as Jim Gaffigan, reprising his role as Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, and Bowen Yang, an "SNL" cast member, as Ohio Sen. JD Vance, engaged in lively exchanges on a variety of issues.

At moments during the debate, both vice-presidential hopefuls sidestepped questions, prompting Rudolph as Harris to chuckle awkwardly and comment on Gaffigan's Walz, "Ok, ok. He’s out there, doing his thing, whatever that may be..."

Yang, portraying Vance, responded to a query from fellow cast member Heidi Gardner, who assumed the role of CBS anchor and debate moderator Norah O’Donnell, with what seemed like a rehearsed answer. This impressed Gaffigan's Walz, who remarked, "This guy’s good, he’s got an answer for everything." Vance, played by Yang, appeared genuinely moved by the praise.

In a display of unexpected camaraderie, the impersonators found common ground on certain topics, ultimately declaring in unison, "That’s an area where we have a lot of common ground." The iconic tune "Take My Breath Away" by Berlin set the scene as both candidates extended a hand toward each other, sharing a comical moment of connection across the split screen.

Observing the spectacle from home, Rudolph as Harris comically spat out her wine in disbelief, exclaiming, "Why are they friends? Why are they vibing?!"

Dana Carvey, an "SNL" alum, reprised his role as President Joe Biden, making a surprise appearance to disrupt the viewing party. He managed to spill ice cream on both himself and Rudolph's Harris while assuring her, "You’re going to make a great president."

Nate Bargatze took on hosting duties for this week's episode, marking his return nearly a year after his initial hosting gig. Coldplay, fresh from releasing their album "Moon Music," served as the musical guest.

"SNL" broadcasts on NBC at 11:30 p.m. EDT/8:30 p.m. PDT. The upcoming episode will feature Ariana Grande as host, with musical performances by Stevie Nicks.