Live from New York it's . . . hey, where's Obama going?

The 34th season premiere of SNL will have laughs, Olympic gold medalists, surprise alumni returns, but not a presidential candidate.

According to People Magazine, Senator Barack Obama has decided to skip his appearance on NBC's Saturday Night Live. The senator's spokeswoman, Jen Psaki, said it would be in poor taste for Obama to appear on the comedy program following the wake of Hurricane Ike, whose full damage has yet to be measured.

Long time producer and creator of the show, Lorne Michaels, has also stated that the show's tone itself will be altered if the damage in Texas turns out to be catastrophic.

We can still expect quite a show, as Olympian phenom Michael Phelps trades in his goggles for some cue cards in the role of host. Also, long time writer and performer of the program, Tina Fey, of 30 Rock fame, will return to portray Republican vice-presidential nominee, Sarah Palin.

Saturday Night Live is known for its ratings and overall quality boost during the heat of presidential races and it appears they won't be pulling any punches from the get go.