Saturday Night Live Targets Trump’s Tariffs in Weekend Update

Donald Trump’s newly declared tariffs on China took center stage on this week’s Saturday Night Live, with the show’s “Weekend Update” segment exploring the issue with its characteristic satirical style.

SNL cast member Bowen Yang returned as “Chen Biao,” a made-up Chinese trade minister, to mock Trump’s astonishing 145 percent tariff on Chinese products. The inflated number provided ample comedic material, with Yang’s character questioning the arbitrary nature of the figure before recognizing the economic difficulties it could impose on both countries.

“There will be a lot of hardship,” Biao acknowledged. “But the real question is: which nation is more equipped to handle it for national pride? The one that has existed for thousands of years, or the one that’s sending Katy Perry into space?”

The sketch also alluded to Trump’s announcement earlier that day regarding certain electronics and computer items being exempt from the tariffs. Yang’s character seized the opportunity to take a dig at the U.S. over this decision.

“You can’t live without our technology,” he stated. “But I think we’ll get by without your Newman’s Own salad dressing.”

The segment connected to a larger theme throughout the episode, which drew comedic inspiration from Trump’s trade policies, including in the cold open. SNL continues to mix current events with humor, providing viewers with a satirical perspective on the latest political news.