California Gov. Gavin Newsom took a playful jab at President Donald Trump this weekend while celebrating global music star Bad Bunny ahead of his highly anticipated Super Bowl LX halftime performance in the Golden State.
In a tongue-in-cheek post shared by the governor’s press office, Newsom mimicked Trump’s signature all-caps bravado, praising Bad Bunny’s “soothing, beautiful voice” and “very nice looks.” While clearly satirical, the message underscored a real proclamation: February 8 is officially “Bad Bunny Day” in California.
Bad Bunny’s Political Message and Limited U.S. Performances
Puerto Rican-born artist Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has been vocal about immigration rights and concerns over harassment and deportation of Latino communities. He has said his Super Bowl appearance will likely be his only U.S. performance this year.
At the Grammys in downtown Los Angeles on February 1, the chart-topping artist made his stance unmistakable, declaring: “ICE out! … We’re not savage, we’re not animals, we’re not aliens. We are humans, and we are Americans.”
Bad Bunny, one of the most streamed artists in the world and a recent Grammy Album of the Year winner, said his halftime show will be a celebration of joy and culture. “It’s gonna be a huge party,” he said. “I want to bring a lot from my culture.”
Trump Skips the Super Bowl, Calls Halftime Choice ‘Ridiculous’
Despite giving the traditional pre-game interview, Trump will not attend the Super Bowl this year. The president cited travel distance from the East Coast to California and has publicly criticized Bad Bunny’s selection as halftime headliner, calling it “ridiculous.”
Trump is expected to watch the game on television, while Newsom plans to attend in person at Levi’s Stadium, home of the San Francisco 49ers, which will host more than 68,000 fans.
Apple, the NFL, and Latino Outreach
Apple CEO Tim Cook also praised Bad Bunny on social media ahead of the game. Apple Music has sponsored the Super Bowl halftime show since 2023, with performers selected by Jay-Z’s Roc Nation in partnership with the NFL.
The league has increasingly sought to expand its Latino audience, a strategy reflected in its continued backing of Bad Bunny despite backlash from MAGA-aligned commentators.
MAGA Backlash and Competing ‘All-American’ Halftime Show
Conservative criticism of Bad Bunny’s performance has included a rival “All-American Halftime Show” organized by Turning Point USA, founded by Charlie Kirk. The alternative event will stream on TPUSA platforms, Real America’s Voice, and OAN.
Gov. Newsom seized on the moment to further mock conservative outrage, including renewed jabs at Kid Rock. While rumors circulated online, Kid Rock is not actually banned from California.
The competing show coincides with mounting setbacks for Kid Rock’s politically themed “Rock The Country” tour, which has already seen multiple dates canceled as artists drop out.
Super Bowl LX Broadcast Details
Super Bowl LX kicks off at 5:30 p.m. CT /on Feb. 8, following hours of pre-game coverage. The Seahawks vs. Patriots matchup will air live on NBC, stream on Peacock, and be available in Spanish on Telemundo and Universo.
As the spotlight turns to the halftime stage, Bad Bunny’s performance is shaping up to be not just a musical event, but a cultural and political flashpoint on one of television’s biggest nights.
For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.