Story perspectives

SNL's Canceled ICE Sketch Sparks Backlash and Protests

1/23/2026

Summary

SNL Faces Backlash

SNL cut a sketch about ICE from its January 17 episode, triggering backlash.
The segment featured Minnesota native Tommy Brennan discussing unrest after Renee Nicole Good's shooting by an ICE agent.
Fans criticized SNL's decision to post the sketch online, calling it a cowardly move.
Protests against ICE have intensified in Minnesota, prompting local officials to push back against federal immigration enforcement.

Summary

SNL Satirizes Trump

In SNL's 2026 premiere, James Austin Johnson portrays U.S. President Donald Trump and references the capture of Nicolás Maduro.
Newcomer Ashley Padilla portrays Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and addresses unrest in Minnesota over ICE actions.
Padilla’s Noem character makes controversial remarks about joining ICE, reflecting the administration's stance.
Colin Jost reprises his role as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and delivers aggressive commentary on U.S. military actions.

History

Historical Context

The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson on October 3, abolished discriminatory national quotas that favored European immigrants. This landmark legislation significantly increased immigration from Latin America and Asia, leading to over 1 million new arrivals annually by the 1990s. The ongoing backlash against ICE in Minnesota highlights the enduring tensions surrounding immigration enforcement and immigrant rights in the U.S.

1 of 3

SNL Faces Backlash

SNL cut a sketch about ICE from its January 17 episode, triggering backlash.
The segment featured Minnesota native Tommy Brennan discussing unrest after Renee Nicole Good's shooting by an ICE agent.
Fans criticized SNL's decision to post the sketch online, calling it a cowardly move.
Protests against ICE have intensified in Minnesota, prompting local officials to push back against federal immigration enforcement.

1 / 3