Pete Davidson Portrays Border Czar in ‘SNL’ Minneapolis Sketch

Pete Davidson made a notable return to “Saturday Night Live” (SNL) on January 31, 2026, portraying Tom Homan, the White House border czar. The sketch addressed contentious immigration issues in Minneapolis, reflecting on the city’s political climate.

Significant Political Context

Davidson’s character, Homan, spoke to a group of confused U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. He expressed frustration while explaining why the agents should refrain from using force against protesters. Homan underscored that ICE’s mission was to “detain and deport illegal immigrants who have committed crimes,” prompting one agent to respond, “This is literally the first I’m hearing of that.”

Focus on Current Events

The sketch coincided with protests surrounding immigration enforcement in Minneapolis, especially following the arrests of journalists and activists. Notably, former CNN anchor Don Lemon was arrested on January 29, 2026, during a protest connected to immigration enforcement operations.

• Lemon was involved in a protest at Cities Church in St. Paul on January 18.
• He defended his “constitutionally protected work” in Minneapolis.
• Two other activists, Georgia Fort and Trahern Jeen Crews, were also arrested.

Immigration and Recent Events

The SNL sketch highlighted the ongoing discontent with ICE, especially after the fatal shooting of U.S. citizen Alex Pretti by federal agents on January 24, 2026. Protests erupted following Pretti’s death, which was part of a larger pattern of violence involving immigration enforcement.

Details about the Tragic Incidents

On January 24, immigration agents shot and killed ICU nurse Alex Pretti during an altercation. This incident occurred just weeks after another lethal encounter involving agent fire and Renee Good, also aged 37. Such violence has amplified the anti-ICE sentiment across the country.

Insights from the Comedy Sketch

During the SNL cold open, Davidson’s Homan reiterated that ICE agents should avoid using excessive force. One character jokingly referenced past protests, further illustrating the tension surrounding current enforcement practices.

• Homan’s character questioned the agents, clarifying what their goal was in Minneapolis.
• He concluded the sketch by asking agents if they could perform their jobs without infringing on civil rights.

Audience and Cultural Response

The comedic approach to serious issues resonated with viewers, especially amidst ongoing debates over ICE’s actions. SNL’s portrayal drew attention to the balance of law enforcement and civil liberties, triggering discussions about similar real-world implications.

As SNL moves forward, it continues to serve as a platform for commentary on pressing social issues, engaging audiences while reflecting the current socio-political landscape. The next episode is scheduled for February 28, featuring host Connor Storrie and musical guest Mumford & Sons.

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