It’s revealing when even events like the Super Bowl halftime show become a source of political controversy. This issue emerged in October 2025, following conservative backlash over the NFL’s decision to feature the Spanish singer Bad Bunny as the Super Bowl halftime performer. Despite criticism from Trump and various Republican figures labeling the Puerto Rican superstar as a “massive Donald Trump hater,” an “anti-ICE activist,” and condemning him for having “no songs in English,” the NFL has confirmed that it will not replace Bad Bunny, regardless of the President’s objections. 

These criticisms raise deeper questions about language, culture, and who gets to be considered “American enough.” In response to Bad Bunny’s performance, Turning Point USA has announced an “All-American Halftime Show,” which will air simultaneously with the official Super Bowl XL halftime show. This alternative event is planned by the conservative organization and features Kid Rock, Brantley Gilbert, and Lee Brice.

The country is already deeply divided, and now even cultural events like the Super Bowl are being politicized. This alternative halftime show is undeniably rooted in racism; though Bad Bunny is from a U.S. territory, making him a U.S. citizen, Turning Point USA does not consider him American enough. If the performer were white, this alternative show likely would not have been organized. It is both embarrassing and disturbing that the President has chosen to endorse and promote such hateful and racist rhetoric.

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