Jake Tapper Rejects Triumph The Insult Comic Dog's Attempt To Invade Debate Report

CNN anchor Jake Tapper  shooed away Triumph the Insult Comic Dog after the vice presidential debate on Tuesday but not before cracking up at the pooch puppets shtick. (Watch the video below.)

Tapper and CNN colleagues Abby Phillip and Dana Bash were analyzing the performances of Republican JD Vance and Democrat Tim Walz when Triumph, operated by former Saturday Night Live and Late Night With Conan OBrien writer Robert Smigel , approached in a gray wig. 

Its Meemaw, JDs Meemaw, Triumph said, referring to Vances Mamaw  from the Ohio senators memoir.

I dont know that youre micd, Tapper said.

Im micd and youre stuck with me, Triumph shot back.

Were not gonna make fun of JD Vances grandmother, but we do appreciate the comedy artistry of Robert Smigel and Triumph, but thank you, Tapper said.

Triumph would not be deterred. He made a quick change into Donald Trump-loving  wrestler Hulk Hogan to make Tapper laugh before the newsman sent Triumph on his way.

Former Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.) had her own Triumph-ant moment at the debate. She said on the air that the puppet argued that she should be allowed in the spin room before him.

Good boy, Triumph. Good boy!