The sketch show is known for its Donald Trump-bashing, but it took aim at Biden’s age and mental fitness in Saturday’s cold open.
« I understand people care about the president’s age, but they should look at his record, » said the fake Newsom, defending the politician. « He’s created more jobs than any president in history, inflation is down, the shamrock shake is back and Beyoncé has gone country. »
When asked if Biden could do all those things with the « speed and sharpness » of a younger man, Newsom replied: « He can do it better. »
« I’m a little skeptical, » Bash continued. « This is the same man people call ‘Sleepy Joe.' »
Robert De Niro starred as a catatonic man in the 1990 drama, who cannot move but can respond to certain stimuli, such as catching a ball.
After doing an impression of De Niro, Newsom suggested that Bash « ask any of the people who are with him every day. »
Dana did just that, quizzing Ego Nwodim as White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, who described Biden as « the most vigorous man she’s ever known. »
« Behind closed doors, he’s a whirlwind, » Jean-Pierre said, reading out Biden’s daily schedule of soul cycle classes, speed chess in the park, push-up contests and a lunch with « five raw chickens and a whole potato.
