SNL’s Trump Cold Open Tackles Iran War and Skyrocketing Gas Prices
Saturday Night Live’s cold open on March 14, 2026, featured a satirical take on the current political climate, specifically focusing on the ongoing war in Iran and the resulting surge in gas prices. The sketch, starring James Austin Johnson as former President Donald Trump and Colin Jost as Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, lampooned the administration’s response to the economic fallout.
The Sketch: A Family Road Trip Interrupted
The scene opened with a family on a road trip, grappling with the reality of $5-per-gallon gasoline. The mother, played by Ashley Padilla, suggested that one of the children might have to be left behind due to the cost of filling the car’s tank. This grim scenario set the stage for Trump’s unexpected appearance.
Trump’s Unhinged Explanation
Johnson’s portrayal of Trump offered a characteristic stream of consciousness, initially attributing the high gas prices to “The Epstein Files,” before jokingly adding, “Kidding, but possibly not.” He continued, framing the situation as a consequence of promises made during his campaign. “You might remember me from such campaign promises as lower gas prices and no more wars,” Trump quipped. “We love to make promises because a promise is just a lie that hasn’t happened yet.”
Trump also attempted to explain the stock market’s downturn to the audience, drawing a parallel for fans of the musical guest, Harry Styles: “Let me place it in a way that the Harry Styles fans in the crowd tonight can understand. The stock market is going in one direction: down!”
Hegseth’s Bizarre Entrance
Colin Jost, as Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, added to the absurdity of the sketch with a peculiar entrance. He tumbled out of the back of the family’s Chevy Impala wearing oversized shoes, a gift from Trump that he apparently found captivating.
SNL’s Commentary on the Iran War
The sketch served as a commentary on the domestic consequences of the war in Iran, highlighting the economic burden placed on American families. Trump’s character acknowledged the connection between the conflict and the rising gas prices, stating, “Gas prices are very high because of war with Iran, which is where they make gas. I wish someone had told me that.”
As of March 15, 2026, the war in Iran continues to impact global markets, with gas prices remaining elevated. Yahoo News Canada reported on the sketch, noting its sharp critique of the administration’s handling of the situation.
TV Insider also covered the cold open, emphasizing the satirical portrayal of Trump’s response to the crisis.
You can watch the full cold open on YouTube.
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