Bad Bunny's Super Bowl Halftime Show Sparks Political Storm
Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny has sparked controversy with his upcoming Super Bowl halftime show performance. US Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem and former President Donald Trump have both criticized the NFL's choice, leading to a counter-program by conservative group Turning Point USA.
Bad Bunny addressed the backlash during a recent Saturday Night Live appearance, but the debate continues. Turning Point USA, founded by the late Charlie Kirk, will host an 'All American Halftime Show' featuring performers chosen by the public, aiming to celebrate 'faith, family, and freedom'. The organization announced this counter-event following Bad Bunny's booking for the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show in February. Meanwhile, Noem confirmed that ICE agents will be present at the event to ensure public safety, a move that has also raised concerns among some fans and activists. Bad Bunny, who has been vocal about social and political issues, has expressed fears about ICE raids at his US concerts, leading him to skip a US tour during his world tour.
The Super Bowl halftime show has become a political flashpoint, with Bad Bunny's performance drawing criticism from conservative figures and sparking a counter-event by Turning Point USA. As the event approaches, discussions around immigration, free speech, and cultural representation continue to unfold.