As midterms draw near, Saturday Night Live addressed Donald Trump’s closing campaign messages, including his rally appeals and focus on Jon Husted, alongside remarks on international elections and a Senate race.
The closing stretch of the midterm elections brought unconventional political messaging to the forefront of late-night television on November 1, 2026. Colin Jost and Michael Che tackled the final days of campaigning by zeroing in on distinct remarks from political figures and candidates as voters prepare to head to the polls. The Halloween edition of the program also featured a cameo appearance by Ben Marshall as Pennywise.
Midterm Appeals and Late-Night Commentary on Campaign Messages
Among the topics addressed during the broadcast was President Trump’s closing message to voters, which included encouraging supporters to imagine he was on the ballot. Colin Jost noted that President Trump continues to campaign for Republicans ahead of the midterms with the message, ‘Just close your eyes and pretend I’m on the ballot.’
Following this, Jost added a remark about a voter reaction while an image of Melania Trump appeared on the screen, stating, You had me at ‘close your eyes and pretend.
Beyond campaign strategies, the broadcast focused heavily on unusual focal points from recent rallies. Jost remarked on how much time has been spent discussing Ohio Sen. Jon Husted, pointing to clips of the president describing how he has “examined” it. The segment also touched on remarks regarding the physical toll of daily campaign events on vocal cords, with Jost telling reporters, God didn’t make vocal cords to do a rally every day.
Jost further joked that the only thing God made to never quit was Jon Husted’s ass. Jost then highlighted comments from JD Vance regarding the situation.
Even Vice President JD Vance came out and said that he was jealous that President Trump has never complimented his butt. What the hell is going on?! Your party is about to lose the midterms. Stop playing ‘smash or pass’ with each other.
Colin Jost
Senatorial Races and International Elections Highlighted by Anchors
The broadcast touched on political contests and foreign votes, including Ted Cruz saying Americans will die if Abdul El-Sayed wins the Senate race.
Later in the segment, Michael Che shifted focus internationally by mentioning voter turnout in another country’s democratic process, bringing up a record number of people voting in Israel’s election.
This week, a record number of people voted in Israel’s election — which is great to see, regardless of if you’re on the right side, or the left side, or the genocide.
Michael Che
The joke drew a visible reaction on set, with Jost offering a quick grimace before the program moved forward.
