That episode was hosted by Julia Louis-Dreyfus, who reprised her role as Elaine Benes from Seinfeld (a show that David co-created) during the sketch. David also impersonated Sanders during the "Democratic Presidential Debate" cold open sketch on April 16, 2016. The real Sanders also appeared on February 6, 2016, which was hosted by his impersonator Larry David, in the "Steam Boat" sketch and introduced musical guest The 1975's first performance, alongside David. On Saturday Night Live, Bernie Sanders was impersonated by former writer Larry David on Octoduring the "Democratic Presidential Debate" cold open sketch, Novemduring the "Democratic Candidates Forum" cold open sketch, Februduring the "Bern Your Enthusiasm" film, and on Maduring the "CNN Election Center" cold open sketch. Sanders is also known for speaking in a distinctive New York accent. Sanders is known for his far-left leaning political views and advocacy that tend to clash with more mainstream liberal democrats and cause them to associate Sanders with socialism. In 2015, he announced his candidacy for the Democratic nomination for President of the United States in the 2016 election and again for the 2020 election, losing both times to the eventual nominees ( Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden, respectively). He is one of two independent politicians in the Senate, along with Angus King of Maine. Representative from Vermont's at-large district from 1991 until his election as a Senator, and as the mayor of Burlington, Vermont from 1981 to 1989. Sanders was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York to a Jewish family, and became interested in politics after learning about the Holocaust in school. Larry David Bernard "Bernie" Sanders (born September 8, 1941) is an American politician who currently serves as a junior United States Senator from Vermont since 2007.