A notable conservative group, Turning Point USA, is organizing an alternative Super Bowl halftime show, dubbed "The All-American Halftime Show." This initiative follows widespread criticism from some conservative figures and media outlets regarding the NFL's selection of Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny as the official halftime performer for Super Bowl 60.
The controversy centers on Bad Bunny's political views, which include criticism of former President Donald Trump's immigration policies, and his challenges to traditional gender norms. Critics contend his performance alienates conservative fans, with some expressing a desire for performers perceived as more aligned with "all-American values." Turning Point USA's alternative aims to showcase "faith, family & freedom," and is streaming on their social media channels.
Super Bowl Halftime Show Becomes Political Battleground
The selection of Bad Bunny for the Super Bowl 60 halftime show has ignited a significant public debate, particularly within conservative circles. The NFL's choice has been met with opposition from some prominent conservative leaders and media personalities, who argue that Bad Bunny's music, political stances, and embrace of fluid gender expression are not in line with their definition of "American values."
Read More: Olympic Games Have Many Controversies and Scandals
Opposition Arguments:
Political Stance: Bad Bunny's vocal criticism of Trump-era immigration policies is a key point of contention.
Gender Norms: His public image and fashion choices, which challenge traditional gender expressions, are cited as alienating for some viewers.
Language: Concerns have been raised about the potential for a Spanish-language performance, with some incorrectly stating he is not an American artist.
Counterarguments and Support:
Diversity Celebration: Supporters argue that Bad Bunny's selection celebrates America's diversity and that the backlash is politically motivated.
Artistic Merit: Bad Bunny is recognized as one of the most-streamed artists globally, with a significant following.
Cultural Influence: The halftime show has a history of reflecting and influencing cultural trends, with many viewing Bad Bunny's participation as a reflection of current popular culture.
Turning Point USA's "All-American Halftime Show"
In response to the controversy, Turning Point USA has announced their intention to host a separate halftime event. This counterprogramming effort is designed to offer an alternative viewing experience for those who disapprove of the official halftime show.
Read More: Arc Raiders Game Is Very Popular After Launch
Themes: The event is promoted with themes of "faith, family & freedom."
Platform: It is set to stream on Turning Point USA's social media channels.
Engagement: The organization has launched a website allowing the public to vote on desired music genres for their show.
Performers: While specific performers and sponsors have not yet been fully revealed, the group has hinted at a lineup that aligns with their stated values. Some reports have mentioned Kid Rock as a potential participant.
Official Response and Broader Context
While some conservative figures have voiced strong opinions, official responses from political figures have been varied. Some, like House Speaker Mike Johnson, have expressed disapproval. Former President Donald Trump has stated he has "never heard" of Bad Bunny. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has suggested President Trump would prefer a performance by Kid Rock.
Read More: Finnish Ski Jumping Coach Sent Home From Olympics For Alcohol Issue
The NFL has not issued a broad public statement addressing the specific criticisms but has maintained its programming choices. Federal agencies like ICE, which have been a point of past political focus, have stated their presence at the Super Bowl will be consistent with previous years, and they will not be among the federal agencies present. The situation highlights how major cultural events like the Super Bowl can become entangled with political discourse and social divisions.
Key Organizations Involved:
NFL: Organizer of the official Super Bowl halftime show.
Turning Point USA: Conservative organization hosting an alternative halftime event.
Bad Bunny: Official halftime performer.
Various Conservative Leaders and Media Figures: Those publicly criticizing Bad Bunny's selection.
Expert Analysis and Public Reaction
The events surrounding the Super Bowl halftime show have drawn commentary from various observers, noting the deepening political and cultural divides reflected in the reactions.
Read More: High on Life 2 Game Is Out, People Talk About Its Funny Jokes and New Skateboard Moves
"Conservatives lit up social media to plead their case for why the Puerto Rican singer and rapper… wasn’t the right choice for the night, calling him out for everything from being Anti-Trump to speaking Spanish."– Article 3 (The Root)
"The organization has already launched a website that allows people to vote for the kind of music they’d like to see featured in the show. Although millions of Bad Bunny fans around the world are planning to be locked in to every exciting minute of the show, one prominent conservative group is making sure people have something else to watch during the break in the football action."– Article 3 (The Root)
"Critics have also complained that the artist has 'no songs in English.' President Donald Trump added to the controversy, telling Newsmax host Greg Kelly that he had 'never heard' of Bad Bunny."– Article 4 (AzExpress)
The organizing group, Turning Point USA, has framed their event as a positive affirmation of specific values, stating, "It’s true, Turning Point USA is thrilled to announce The All American Halftime Show," promising "faith, family & freedom" as its central themes.
Read More: Ukrainian Skeleton Racer Removed from Olympics for Helmet Tribute
Summary of Reactions:
Some see the backlash as a politically motivated attempt to "claim cultural ground."
Others view Bad Bunny's performance as a celebration of American diversity.
The alternative show is positioned by its organizers as a reflection of traditional "all-American" ideals.
Conclusion and Implications
The Super Bowl 60 halftime show has become a focal point for a cultural debate, illustrating the ongoing political polarization within the United States. The decision to feature Bad Bunny has triggered a significant reaction from some conservative groups, most notably Turning Point USA, who are actively organizing an alternative event.
The contrasting approaches to the halftime entertainment — one by the NFL celebrating a global music star and the other by a conservative group emphasizing "faith, family & freedom" — highlight differing perspectives on cultural representation and national identity. The engagement of prominent political figures and the widespread social media discussion indicate that major cultural events are increasingly intertwined with political narratives. The "All-American Halftime Show" initiative represents a direct attempt to counter or offer an alternative to what its organizers perceive as mainstream cultural offerings that do not align with their base's values. The impact and reception of both halftime shows will likely be observed as a measure of current cultural and political sentiments.
Sources
Euronews: Everything we know about MAGA's protest Super Bowl Halftime Show
Published 3 days ago. Focuses on the planned alternative show and performers, mentioning Kid Rock.
USA Today: Down. Set. Divide! MAGA vs. Bad Bunny splits Super Bowl 60
Published 2 days ago. Details the conservative opposition to Bad Bunny, citing his political views and challenges to gender norms, and mentions leaders like Mike Johnson.
The Root: Turning Point USA Plans Alternative to Bad Bunny Super Bowl Halftime Show
Published Oct 10, 2025. Highlights the organization of the alternative show and the social media reaction to Bad Bunny's selection.
AzExpress: MAGA announces alternative ‘All-American’ Super Bowl halftime show after outrage over Bad Bunny
Published Oct 10, 2025. Reports on Turning Point USA's announcement and their stated themes of "faith, family & freedom," also mentioning Donald Trump's comments.
AP News: Don't tune into the Super Bowl hoping for a break from politics
Published 5 days ago. Discusses how the Super Bowl has become a platform for political statements and the pressure on the NFL, mentioning the role of ICE.
Read More: Elizabeth Hurley and Billy Ray Cyrus Share Their Story
