Harris Makes Surprise Appearance on SNL, Republican FCC Chair Claims ‘Equal Time’ Rule Violation

Vice President Kamala Harris made a surprise guest appearance on Saturday’s edition of Saturday Night Live (SNL), prompting criticism from a Trump-appointed Federal Communications Commission (FCC) commissioner.

The Sketch: Portrayed by Maya Rudolph, the character of Kamala Harris expressed wishes to speak with "someone in my shoes." Harris herself then appeared on the other side of a dressing room mirror. The two exchanged comical lines and wished each other luck for the upcoming election.

The Criticism: Brendan Carr, the senior Republican on the commission, claimed Harris’ appearance violated the FCC’s “Equal Time” rule. “The purpose of the rule is to avoid exactly this type of biased and partisan conduct — a licensed broadcaster using the public airwaves to exert its influence for one candidate on the eve of an election. Unless the broadcaster offered Equal Time to other qualifying campaigns,” Carr wrote on X.

Trump's Turn: On Sunday, NBC subsequently offered former President Trump an opportunity to address viewers during the NASCAR 2024 Playoff Cup race.

For Context: First aired in the 70s, SNL is a live, late-night American comedy show produced by NBC. The episode was hosted by comedian John Mulaney and featured a musical performance from Chappell Roan. Harris will face Trump in the presidential election on Tuesday, November 5.

How the Media Covered It: Harris’ appearance was a top mainstream storyline across the spectrum on Sunday morning. Carr’s complaint was also widely covered by mainstream media later during the day after it picked up steam on X.