Jake Tapper Rejects Triumph The Insult Comic Dog's Attempt To Invade Debate Report

CNN anchor Jake Tapper shooed away Triumph the Insult Comic Dog after the vice presidential debate on Tuesday ― but not before cracking up at the pooch puppet’s shtick. (Watch the video below.)

Tapper and CNN colleagues Abby Phillip and Dana Bash were analyzing the performances of Republican JD Vance and Democrat Tim Walz when Triumph, operated by former “Saturday Night Live” and “Late Night With Conan O’Brien” writer Robert Smigel, approached in a gray wig.

“It’s Meemaw, JD’s Meemaw,” Triumph said, referring to Vance’s “Mamaw” from the Ohio senator’s memoir.

“I don’t know that you’re mic’d,” Tapper said.

“I’m mic’d and you’re stuck with me,” Triumph shot back.

“We’re not gonna make fun of JD Vance’s grandmother, but we do appreciate the comedy artistry of Robert Smigel and Triumph, but thank you,” Tapper said.

Triumph would not be deterred. He made a quick change into Donald Trump-loving wrestler Hulk Hogan to make Tapper laugh before the newsman sent Triumph on his way.

Former Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.) had her own Triumph-ant moment at the debate. She said on the air that the puppet argued that she should be allowed in the spin room before him.

Good boy, Triumph. Good boy!

Smigel has done occasional political segments for “The Daily Show” recently, so perhaps another is on the way.

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