Politics is once again colliding with professional football, this time over the announcement that Puerto Rican
The global music sensation—ranked just behind Taylor Swift in Spotify streams—has long been outspoken on political issues. He endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris in 2024, criticized President Donald Trump, and used his music videos to mock immigration crackdowns. Bad Bunny has also been known for challenging gender norms, often appearing in dresses and costumes that push traditional boundaries.
The announcement comes just weeks after Bad Bunny skipped U.S. stops on his international tour, citing concerns that ICE agents might target his largely Latino fan base.
Corey Lewandowski, a senior adviser at the Department of Homeland Security, suggested that ICE agents will be active in the Santa Clara area around the Super Bowl.
“There is nowhere that you can provide safe haven to people who are in this country illegally,” Lewandowski said. “Not the Super Bowl and nowhere else. We will find you. We will apprehend you. We will put you in a detention facility and we will deport you.”
Conservative commentators also criticized the NFL’s decision, citing Bad Bunny’s history of making negative remarks about ICE agents.
“You want to perform on the largest stage in front of a predominantly American audience, and then once again demonize our federal agents and law enforcement,” said political commentator Tomi Lahren. “That’s divisive, and it doesn’t belong in the Super Bowl.”
Others argue Republicans who are upset over the choice are overreacting.
“I always remember we used to make fun of the left for being snowflakes and offended all the time,” said former Republican congressman Adam Kinzinger. “Everything is offending the GOP today.”
The NFL, meanwhile, has emphasized its focus on expanding internationally. Commissioner Roger Goodell has overseen more overseas games in cities including London, Dublin, Madrid, Mexico City, and Rio de Janeiro—an effort to widen the league’s global footprint.
The Super Bowl halftime show featuring Bad Bunny is set for February in Santa Clara, California.
