In an unexpected twist during the Nov. 2 episode of “Saturday Night Live,” Virginia Senator Tim Kaine, who was Hillary Clinton’s running mate in the 2016 presidential election, made a cameo appearance that left fans buzzing. With the 2024 presidential race heating up, Kaine’s entrance on the iconic late-night sketch show served as a timely reminder of his continued political presence.

The sketch, titled “What’s That Name: Election Edition,” featured host John Mulaney attempting to identify the Senator while in a quiz show setup. Mulaney's character, flustered and overwhelmed, struggled to recall Kaine’s name despite hints referencing the former vice presidential election.

“Remember, you voted for me to be just one heartbeat away from the Oval Office in an election more recent than the release of ‘Zootopia.’ What’s my name?” Kaine quipped playfully.

Mulaney, portraying the befuddled contestant, humorously deflected the challenge by comparing Kaine’s forgettable presence to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. "If he was a more memorable guy like Tim Walz. This is very much a guy like Tim Walz," he exclaimed, drawing laughs with his comedic exaggeration.

Kaine shot back, “My name is still Tim. I exist! I’m a senator representing Virginia,” emphasizing his ongoing role in politics despite perceptions.

In a fun twist, SNL regular Sarah Sherman appeared as “Margaret,” later revealed to be Canadian author Margaret Atwood, the literary powerhouse behind the dystopian classic “The Handmaid’s Tale.” The sketch took a politically charged turn as Mulaney's character grappled with the complexity of naming victims of police brutality, prompting a pointed critique of societal issues and the political landscape.

As Atwood, Sherman interjected with biting commentary: “I’m sorry to interrupt…If you’d read that book, you’d see that we’re basically halfway there.” This clever line added a layer of urgency to the skit, reflecting real-world anxieties regarding impending political outcomes.

Mulaney, who has hosted SNL six times, is no stranger to the show's format, having spent five years as a writer from 2008 to 2013. With a growing list of memorable sketches such as “Diner Lobster” and “Airport Sushi,” Mulaney has solidified his standing as a beloved figure in comedy. His recent Netflix specials, including “Everybody’s in LA” and “Baby J,” further establish his place in the entertainment world.

The skit cleverly interwove humor with a critique of current societal issues, capturing the attention of a generation facing unprecedented political times. As the 2024 election approaches, moments like these only amplify the intersection of comedy and politics, leaving viewers both entertained and contemplative.