House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., criticized the NFL’s decision to feature Puerto Rican singer-songwriter Bad Bunny as the headlining performer at February’s Super Bowl, calling it a “terrible decision.” Johnson argued that country music star Lee Greenwood would have been a more suitable “role model” for the event.
The comments came after a reporter questioned Johnson about the halftime selection. “I didn’t even know who Bad Bunny was, but it sounds like a terrible decision, in my view,” Johnson said before being asked to elaborate. He suggested that Bad Bunny lacked broad appeal and raised concerns about his influence on young audiences. “There are so many eyes on the Super Bowl — a lot of young, impressionable children — and I think, in my view, you would have Lee Greenwood or role models doing that. Not somebody like this,” he added.
The NFL has faced criticism from conservative figures over the choice, with former President Donald Trump calling it “absolutely ridiculous.” Trump stated, “I’ve never heard of him… It’s crazy. I think it’s absolutely ridiculous.”
Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has drawn controversy for lyrics and videos deemed explicit and politically charged. Songs like “Safaera” and “Callaíta” include sexual content typical of reggaetón, while tracks such as “El Apagón” and “Pa Ti” targeted Puerto Rican leaders and foreign investors, sparking political backlash.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem vowed to enforce immigration laws at the Super Bowl, stating, “We’ll be all over that place… People should not be coming to the Super Bowl unless they are law-abiding Americans who love this country.”
Greenwood’s patriotic song “God Bless the U.S.A.” became a staple at Trump’s 2024 campaign rallies. The Super Bowl is scheduled for Feb. 8 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
