Trump Ally Threatens ICE Presence at 2026 Super Bowl Following Bad Bunny Halftime Show Announcement
The announcement of Bad Bunny as the Super Bowl LXI halftime performer has ignited immediate controversy, drawing sharp criticism and even veiled threats of increased Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) presence at the event, scheduled for February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
The backlash stems from the artist’s previous statements regarding concerns over performing in the U.S. due to fears of creating a antagonistic environment for his fans amid heightened ICE activity. This past Sunday, September 28, Bad Bunny – a Puerto Rican native – announced on X/twitter his intention to limit U.S. performances to a single date, signaling his apprehension.
On Wednesday, October 1, Corey Lewandowski, a key figure in both of Donald Trump’s presidential campaigns and currently an advisor to the Department of Homeland Security, addressed the possibility of ICE involvement during an appearance on The Benny Show. When questioned about ICE’s potential presence at the Super Bowl, Lewandowski delivered a stark warning.
“There is nowhere you can provide safe haven to people who are in this contry illegally,” Lewandowski stated. “Not the Super Bowl and nowhere else. We will find you and apprehend you and put you in a detention facility and deport you.” he emphasized that this approach represents a significant shift from previous administrations.
this isn’t bad Bunny’s first association with the Super Bowl halftime show; he previously appeared as a guest performer during Jennifer Lopez and shakira’s headline performance six years ago. His acceptance of the headlining slot this time around is notably noteworthy given his earlier reluctance.
Lewandowski also expressed strong disapproval of the artist’s selection, stating, “It’s so shameful they’ve decided to pick somebody who seems to hate America so much to represent them at the Halftime Show.” He argued for a more inclusive approach, suggesting, “We shoudl be trying to be inclusive, not exclusive. There are plenty of great bands and entertainment people who could be playing at that show that would be bringing people together and not separating them.”
The situation highlights the increasingly politicized nature of even large-scale entertainment events and raises questions about the intersection of artistic expression, immigration policy, and the Super Bowl’s global platform.
Why, Who, What, and How did it end?
Why: The controversy arose from Bad bunny’s selection as the Super bowl LXI halftime performer, coupled with his prior expressed concerns about performing in the U.S. due to potential ICE activity and the subsequent reaction from political figures.
Who: Bad Bunny, a Puerto Rican singer, was selected as the halftime performer. Corey Lewandowski, a former Trump campaign advisor and current Department of Homeland Security advisor, publicly threatened increased ICE presence at the event and criticized Bad Bunny’s selection. The NFL and the Super Bowl organizing committee are also key players.
What: Bad Bunny’s announcement as the halftime performer triggered criticism from Lewandowski, who warned of increased ICE enforcement at the Super Bowl to apprehend individuals in the country illegally. Lewandowski also voiced his disapproval of Bad Bunny’s perceived anti-American sentiments.
How did it end? As of the publication of this report, the situation remains unresolved. Lewandowski’s statements have sparked debate and concern, but the NFL
