The 2016 presidential race invades "The Simpsons" in a new clip released by Fox following Saturday's South Carolina Republican primary and Nevada Democratic caucuses.
In the clip titled "The Debateful Eight," Marge is seen tossing in bed as actual sound bytes from recent debates are played in her head. She finally awakens hyperventilating.
"I can't take it anymore. Basic manners are gone from politics. What is it with these ding-dongs?" Marge asks.
Homer tries to calm the kids, who are standing frightened at the bedroom door.
"It's just like when you have a bad dream, except this is real and will probably ruin your life," Homer says to them. He then tries to calm Marge by saying, "I know things look bad now, but just try to visualize another America. One where Republicans, Democrats and Donald Trump all get along."
The six remaining Republicans (including Jeb Bush, who dropped out Saturday night) and two Democrats then begin a song and dance number to James Taylor's "How Sweet It Is."
But soon enough, it all devolves to fisticuffs, with Marco Rubio going robotic and Trump removing a computer disc from his back. Trump and Ted Cruz exchange insults over Trump's bankruptcies and Cruz's Canadian birth.
Hillary Clinton chokes Bernie Sanders with her necklace and says, "Goldman Sachs says hello!"
Though animated episodes typically take months to produce, "The Simpsons" has been experimenting with more timely references, and plans a "live" scene in May where Homer refers to current events and answers viewer questions. That episode will use motion capture of voice actor Dan Castellaneta to achieve the live effect.
Related Stories: