Kristi Noem Criticizes NFL’s Choice of Bad Bunny for Super Bowl Halftime Show: “They Suck, and We’ll Win”

US Secretary Kristi Noem lashes out at NFL’s Bad Bunny halftime booking, vowing law enforcement presence and standing firm on patriotism.

When Politics Meets the Super Bowl Stage

If you thought the Super Bowl halftime show was all about football and flashy performances, think again. This year, the decision to book Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny as the headliner for the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show has sparked quite the controversy—especially from US Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem.

Bad Bunny and Kristi Noem: A clash of culture and politics at the Super Bowl forefront.

The backlash? Noem openly slammed the National Football League’s choice, calling their decision “weak” and declaring, “They suck, and we’ll win.”

The Bad Bunny Backlash: What’s the Fuss?

Earlier this year, Bad Bunny was announced as the star of the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show—a coveted spotlight on one of the biggest stages in entertainment. This announcement came amid the artist’s candid admission that he won’t be touring the US during his upcoming world tour. Why? Because of fears surrounding ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) conducting raids at his shows.

On social media, Bad Bunny explained, “I’ve been thinking about it these days, and after discussing it with my team, I think I’ll do just one date in the United States.” This rare US appearance would be none other than the Super Bowl halftime show.

But the controversy deepened when a member of Donald Trump’s administration confirmed that ICE agents would be present at the event—a move that Noem proudly echoed as part of her responsibility to enforce the law.

“We’re Going to Enforce the Law” – Noem’s Firm Stand

In a recent episode of The Benny Show, Noem made her position crystal clear:

“I have the responsibility for making sure everybody goes to the Super Bowl, has the opportunity to enjoy it and to leave... So yeah, we’ll be all over that place. We’re going to enforce the law.”

Her message was unequivocal:

“I think people should not be coming to the Super Bowl unless they’re law-abiding Americans who love this country.”

Noem’s comments didn’t stop there. Despite Bad Bunny being a US citizen, she criticized the NFL’s choice of a largely Spanish-performing artist for the halftime show. Her defiant takeaway?

“Well, they suck, and we’ll win. And God will bless us, and we’ll stand and be proud of ourselves at the end of the day.”

A Closer Look at Bad Bunny’s Response on Saturday Night Live

Just before the Super Bowl announcement, Bad Bunny took the stage on Saturday Night Live, delivering a monologue that addressed the political backlash with humor and pride.

He joked that “everyone is happy” about the concert—even Fox News. To drive the point home, he played a mashup of Fox News hosts declaring:

“Bad Bunny is my favorite musician and he should be the next President.”

The Puerto Rican artist then expressed excitement about representing Latino culture on one of the world's biggest stages:

“Especially all the Latinos and Latinas in the whole world, and here in the United States... demonstrating that our way, our carrying of this country, no one can ever remove nor erase.”

He wrapped his monologue with a playful challenge:

“And if you didn’t understand what I just said, you have four months to learn.”

Watch Bad Bunny’s SNL monologue here:

NFL’s Big Bet on Bad Bunny

The NFL isn’t shy about embracing Bad Bunny's cultural significance. Jay-Z, the league’s music strategist through Roc Nation, praised the artist’s impact on Puerto Rico and beyond:

“What Benito has done and continues to do for Puerto Rico is truly inspiring. We are honoured to have him on the world’s biggest stage.”

This collaboration marks a trend of the NFL showcasing diverse voices and sounds, signaling a shift toward a more inclusive entertainment lineup—even if it ruffles some feathers politically.

Noem’s Cultural Clash Extends Beyond Music

Kristi Noem's outspoken nature hasn’t gone unnoticed in pop culture. She was recently parodied by the creators of South Park, who released an unaired clip showing her on a fictional shooting spree in a pet store. This satirical jab highlights how her controversies often spill beyond politics and into entertainment commentary.

Wrapping It Up: The Super Bowl’s Cultural Crossroads

The choice to feature Bad Bunny at the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show has ignited debates around culture, patriotism, and enforcement of laws—all on one of the world’s most-watched stages. As a fan, it’s bittersweet watching this tug-of-war unfold: Bad Bunny’s unapologetic pride in his roots shining brightly, while political figures push back with their own visions of what “America” means.

It makes you wonder—can a halftime show still be just about the music? Or has it become a battleground for identity and ideology? Either way, one thing’s for sure: The spotlight on that stage next February won’t just be about football.

FAQ

• What sparked Kristi Noem’s criticism of Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl performance?
  Noem criticized the NFL’s decision to book Bad Bunny due to concerns over immigration enforcement and his performance in Spanish, despite his US citizenship.
• Why won’t Bad Bunny tour the US during his world tour?
  He fears ICE agents might raid his concerts, leading him to limit his US appearances.
• Will ICE agents be present at the Super Bowl halftime show?
  According to Noem and a Trump administration official, ICE will enforce immigration laws during the event.
• How did Bad Bunny respond to the political backlash?
  Through a humorous and proud monologue on Saturday Night Live, highlighting Latino pride and dismissing critics.
• What is Jay-Z’s role in the NFL’s music strategy?
  Jay-Z, through Roc Nation, advises the NFL on music partnerships and praised Bad Bunny’s impact.

If this article got your Super Bowl hype going, why not bring that energy home? Shop your favorite album cover posters, including Bad Bunny’s iconic art, at our store for a vibrant touch of music history in your space. Check them out here: Architeg Prints.