SNL Cold Open Last Night: Gas Prices, Politics, and Satire Take Center Stage
The latest episode of Saturday Night Live (SNL) delivered another memorable political satire during its opening sketch on March 14, 2026. Known for its sharp humor and timely commentary, the show used its iconic “cold open” to mock rising gas prices, U.S. politics, and global tensions in a comedic way that quickly went viral across social media. Hosted by Harry Styles, the episode kicked off with a sketch centered around a family struggling with expensive gasoline at a local gas station. The scenario quickly turned into a satirical political commentary once James Austin Johnson appeared portraying former U.S. president Donald Trump, a role he has become widely known for on the show.
A Gas Station Scene Turns Political The cold open began with an ordinary American family pulling into a gas station, shocked by the high price of gasoline. As they discussed how difficult it was becoming to fill up their car, Trump suddenly appeared, claiming he had a simple explanation for the rising costs. In typical SNL fashion, the character delivered exaggerated and humorous excuses for why gas prices were climbing. His responses ranged from blaming global conflicts to making absurd claims about government decisions. The sketch highlighted the confusion and frustration many people feel about economic issues while keeping the tone light and comedic.
The humor escalated as the Trump character insisted he had solutions to every problem but offered vague or ridiculous explanations for how those solutions would work. Pete Hegseth Joins the Chaos The sketch took another comedic turn when Pete Hegseth, portrayed by Colin Jost, entered the scene. His character added more exaggerated commentary about foreign policy and military strategy, particularly referencing tensions involving Iran. The interaction between the two characters created some of the sketch’s biggest laughs. Hegseth’s overly confident explanations and Trump’s unpredictable responses highlighted the absurdity of political debates in a way that SNL has mastered for decades.
Political Satire Remains SNL’s Strength For nearly 50 years, Saturday Night Live has built a reputation for opening episodes with sketches that parody current political events. From presidential debates to press conferences and economic discussions, the show often uses humor to comment on real-world issues. The March 14 cold open continued that tradition by focusing on several hot-button topics, including: Rising gasoline prices U.S. foreign policy discussions Political messaging and campaign promises Media reactions to global conflicts The sketch managed to blend political commentary with everyday frustrations, making the satire relatable for viewers.
Social Media Reaction Shortly after the episode aired, clips of the cold open began circulating online. Fans praised the performance of James Austin Johnson, whose impression of Donald Trump has become one of the most recognizable recurring portrayals on the show. Many viewers also appreciated the chemistry between Johnson and Colin Jost, which helped elevate the sketch’s comedic timing. As with many SNL cold opens, reactions were mixed but lively, with audiences debating the political humor while sharing their favorite jokes.
Live From New York, It’s Saturday Night The sketch concluded with the famous SNL catchphrase: Live from New York, it’s Saturday Night! officially launching the night’s episode hosted by Harry Styles. The cold open set the tone for an entertaining night filled with sketches, musical performances, and celebrity appearances. With its blend of satire and topical humor, the opening segment once again proved why SNL remains one of television’s most influential comedy shows. Last night’s Saturday Night Live cold open combined political satire with everyday frustrations about gas prices and global events.
