SNL finale teases Trump’s VP picks: a gun-toting Kristi Noem and the ‘late, great Hannibal Lecter’

Saturday Night Live kicked off its season finale this week with a skit teasing Donald Trump’s vice-presidential picks – including a gun-toting, dog-killing Kristi Noem and the “late, great” Hannibal Lecter.

James Austin Johnson reprised his role as the former president turned criminal defendant for Saturday night’s cold open, appearing outside Manhattan Criminal Court where Mr Trump’s hush money trial continues.

Throughout the criminal trial, MrTrump has taken to giving lengthy remarks to reporters outside the courthouse, railing against the charges and lashing out at his political rivals.

In recent days, a slew of MAGA Republican lawmakers – several of them believed to be vying to become Mr Trump’s running mate – have shown up at court to support him and act as “surrogates” hitting out at witnesses and the judge’s daughter in a bid to skirt the gag order placed on the former president.

“In my cage at the zoo, really enjoying these post-court press conferences in this very weird and depressing hallway,” Johnson’s Mr Trump said.

He then wheeled out the first vice president contender: Senator Tim Scott, played by Devon Walker.

“People have called my support of Trump humiliating,” Walker’s Mr Scott said.

“But trust me, I am my own man. When Donald Trump says ‘jump,’ I don’t say, ‘how high?’ I say, here’s a jump I was going to do anyway.”

The former president has previously praised Mr Scott for being an “unbelievable” surrogate — that is, someone who campaigns for a candidate while relying on their high-profile status to garner support. Mr Scott’s endorsement of Mr Trump came after quickly entering then dropping out of the 2024 presidential race.

Kristi Noem, played by Heidi Gardner, ran on screen moments later toting a