Bad Bunny, the renowned Puerto Rican artist, has opted not to include the United States in his recent tour due to concerns about U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions. His absence from U.S. venues coincides with the announcement that he will perform at Super Bowl LX, slated for February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
ICE Presence at Super Bowl LX
The decision to feature Bad Bunny as the halftime performer has raised alarms regarding potential ICE enforcement during the event. Corey Lewandowski, a chief adviser to the Secretary of Homeland Security, indicated on “The Benny Show” that ICE agents would be present at the Super Bowl, stating, “There is nowhere that you can provide safe haven to people who are in this country illegally.”
Government Officials Comment
- Lewandowski emphasized that the current administration will actively pursue individuals in the U.S. illegally, regardless of the venue.
- The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reiterated that there is no safe haven for violent criminal aliens.
However, DHS did not clarify specific plans for ICE operations at the Super Bowl, such as checks on IDs of attendees. The NFL has not commented on the matter, while the Bay Area Host Committee, responsible for coordinating the event, also remained silent.
Bad Bunny’s Halftime Performance
Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, is set to make history as the first Latin male artist to headline the Super Bowl halftime show. His inclusion has been met with mixed reactions, particularly from those who oppose his performance due to his criticisms of the U.S. immigration enforcement.
Organizers’ Remarks
Zaileen Janmohamed, president and CEO of the Bay Area Host Committee, expressed enthusiasm about Bad Bunny’s performance, stating that it will provide an unforgettable experience for fans. This selection emphasizes the Bay Area’s reputation as a host for exceptional global events.
Bad Bunny’s Stance on ICE Raids
Bad Bunny has openly criticized ICE raids, which have affected Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory where residents are U.S. citizens. Earlier this year, he shared a video condemning ICE actions, expressing his concern about the impact of mass deportations on Latino communities.
He stated, “There was the issue of — like, f—ing ICE could be outside (my concert),” highlighting his apprehension about the potential presence of enforcement at his events.
Conclusion
As Super Bowl LX approaches, the intersection of celebrity, politics, and immigration enforcement continues to generate discussion. Bad Bunny’s performance promises to be a landmark moment, yet it remains clouded by the prevailing issues around immigration policy in the U.S.
