Kristi Noem’s New Comment on Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Halftime Show Sparks Widespread Reaction

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents will be present at Super Bowl LX, where Bad Bunny is set to headline the halftime show on February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. She also warned that “only law-abiding Americans who love this country” should attend, igniting a heated online debate.

Noem’s statement came during an appearance on “The Benny Show” podcast. It followed the NFL’s announcement of Bad Bunny as the halftime performer and added to an already tense political conversation about the event.

Kristi Noem Confirms ICE Presence and Criticizes NFL Over Bad Bunny’s Performance

Noem said that federal immigration officers will be “all over” the event to enforce immigration laws. She criticized the NFL for “pushing a message about illegal immigration” and called the league “weak” for choosing Bad Bunny to headline the show. Her comments quickly drew attention across social media platforms, where supporters praised her stance on security and critics accused her of politicizing the halftime show.

The South Dakota governor, who is considered a potential running mate for Donald Trump, also criticized the NFL’s decision to feature the Puerto Rican star. Noem referenced the league’s focus on inclusion and cultural expression as being unrelated to football and accused it of ignoring issues at the U.S. border.

Bad Bunny, known for his outspoken support of immigrant and Latino communities, has long used his platform to raise awareness about Puerto Rican identity, economic challenges, and immigration policies. His 2020 “Get Out the Vote” concert supported Joe Biden’s presidential campaign, and he has previously expressed concern over ICE targeting fans at U.S. concerts.

Super Bowl LX Halftime Show Remains Unchanged

The NFL and Apple Music officially announced Bad Bunny as the halftime headliner on September 28, 2025. The league has made no changes to the planned performance despite political backlash. NBC will broadcast the game, and Spanish-language coverage will air on Telemundo.

Bad Bunny’s performance is expected to be a historic cultural moment as one of the most prominent Spanish-language acts to headline the Super Bowl. Analysts believe the league is targeting global viewership and celebrating diversity with this decision. His upcoming hosting of “Saturday Night Live” Season 51’s premiere is also adding to his U.S. cultural spotlight just as the Super Bowl debate intensifies.

Mixed Reactions From Fans and Political Circles

Supporters of Noem argue that her comments highlight standard security measures and the importance of law enforcement presence at major events. Critics say her statements risk discouraging Latino and immigrant fans from attending and deepen the cultural divide surrounding the NFL’s choice of artists.

The NFL has remained silent about Noem’s remarks, focusing instead on promoting the halftime show as a celebration of Bad Bunny’s global influence. There is no indication of any change to the performer lineup or security plan announced by the league.

Kristi Noem’s new comment on Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime show has sparked strong political and cultural reactions. The NFL continues to move forward with the Puerto Rican superstar’s performance on February 8, 2026, as planned.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What did Kristi Noem say about the Super Bowl?

She said ICE would be “all over” the event and warned that only “law-abiding Americans who love this country” should attend. She also criticized the NFL for booking Bad Bunny.

Q2: Is Bad Bunny still confirmed as the halftime performer?

Yes. The NFL has made no changes to the planned halftime show despite the political backlash and online debate.

Q3: When and where is Super Bowl LX?

It will be held on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.

Q4: Why is this controversy trending online?

Noem’s remarks sparked debate over immigration, security, and cultural representation at the NFL’s biggest event of the year.

Q5: What other events is Bad Bunny involved in right now?

He is hosting the Season 51 premiere of “Saturday Night Live,” keeping him in the U.S. spotlight as the Super Bowl conversation grows.