Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Teaser Ignites MAGA Backlash Over ICE
Bad Bunny’s recent Super Bowl halftime show teaser has sparked considerable backlash from supporters of the MAGA movement. The nine-second video, released on a Monday, features the Puerto Rican musician approaching the camera in a brown suit, accompanied by silence. Despite its simplicity, the post generated immediate criticism from right-wing commentators.
Controversial Reactions to the Teaser
Right-wing figures expressed their discontent with the teaser. One social media post suggested that “ICE has the opportunity to do the funniest thing ever.” Another user reminisced that the last entertaining halftime show involved the group N.W.A. These reactions come amid heightened tensions surrounding immigration enforcement under the Trump administration.
Recent ICE Operations
- Recent immigration raids have intensified, with over 2,000 ICE agents conducting operations in various neighborhoods.
- In an operation in Minneapolis, an agent fatally shot 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good, triggering public protests.
- Another incident involved a Venezuelan man being shot in the leg during a separate raid.
Statements from Officials
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem indicated that ICE would increase its presence during this year’s Super Bowl, specifically mentioning Bad Bunny’s selection as halftime performer. “The NFL will not be able to sleep at night,” Noem stated in a press briefing.
Bad Bunny’s Past on Immigration Issues
A U.S. citizen born in Puerto Rico, Bad Bunny has previously voiced his concerns about immigration enforcement. In a 2024 interview with i-D magazine, he reflected on the risks of ICE showing up at his concerts, which influenced his decision to not schedule performances on the mainland.
Criticism of NFL’s Choice
Many critics on social media accused the NFL of selecting Bad Bunny solely for its marketing potential. One user claimed, “Bad Bunny is just a ploy by the NFL to trick Spanish-speaking people into watching football.” Additionally, a petition with over 78,000 signatures has emerged, urging the NFL to replace Bad Bunny with country singer George Strait, citing concerns over his artistic style and public image.
Future Halftime Shows
The 2026 Super Bowl will feature the first halftime show conducted entirely in Spanish. During a playful moment on Saturday Night Live on October 4, 2025, Bad Bunny joked, “If you didn’t understand what I just said, you have four months to learn.”
