I watched both episodes. Although the first was definitely funny in some places, it was definitely rough at the edges and could have used more polish. It didn't look like Rush and Ann had quite gotten their timing and smoothness down right, sort of like actors at a dress rehearsal who still need to do more work before they go on stage before an audience.
The second episode, OTOH, was silky smooth and rib splittingly funny, so much so that it seemed to be over before it started. Rush and Ann were great, but the actual "news" segment was even better. I especially liked the anchorette who appeared to be constantly in moderate distress, as though she was a bit constipated, hoping to relieve herself, but thus far unable to do it.
I especially like the way Ann was parodying the liberal caricature of herself and conservatives in the opening segment. When Rush leaves her in charge to go on a golfing trip, she immediately phones the Pentagon and asks what countries we haven't invaded yet. "Ah, Canada," she nods approvingly after a few seconds. Priceless!
She reminded me of Jane Curtin who did the same in the early years of SNL.
I definitely agree with you, the anchorette was one of my favorite parts. Her constant look of comedic distress and confusion was cute and funny.
could have used more polish.