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San Francisco Schools Close as Teachers Strike Over Contract Dispute

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San Francisco public schools were closed Monday after contract negotiations between the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) and the United Educators of San Francisco union collapsed, impacting roughly 50,000 students.

The walkout marks the city’s first teachers strike since 1979.

Union Cites Pay, Healthcare, and Special Education Concerns

Union leaders said negotiations broke down over wages, healthcare benefits, and special education staffing. While some progress was made — including an agreement on sanctuary school policies — the union said the district’s proposals fell short.

“We were ready to finally hear that the district was prepared to come to an agreement,” the union said in a statement. “But the proposals just didn’t go far enough.”

Sympathy Strikes Expand Closures

School closures widened after principals, administrators, custodians, and other staff announced sympathy strikes. Families were notified late Friday that campuses would not open Monday, according to local reports.

A rally was scheduled at San Francisco’s Civic Center as negotiations stalled.

District Cites Budget Crisis

SFUSD said talks have been ongoing since March 2025 and pointed to a worsening financial situation. The district has recommended a 3% wage increase effective July 2025, followed by another 3% raise in July 2026.

Union President Cassondra Curiel criticized the district’s pace, saying officials lacked urgency despite repeated assurances of a serious offer.

City Offers Limited Support Services

Mayor Daniel Lurie said city departments would provide free meals and limited child care during the closures. Neither SFUSD nor the teachers union responded to requests for further comment.

Negotiations remained unresolved as the strike continued.

Follow every beat on this story with Que Onda Magazine.

Ghislaine Maxwell Pleads Fifth at House Oversight Deposition

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Ghislaine Maxwell, the convicted associate of financier Jeffrey Epstein, invoked her Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination during a closed-door virtual deposition with the House Oversight Committee on Monday, lawmakers said.

The refusal came as Congress gained access to unredacted Epstein files still withheld from public release by the Justice Department.

Lawmakers Express Frustration

House Oversight Chair Rep. James Comer called Maxwell’s silence “very disappointing,” saying lawmakers hoped to question her about Epstein’s crimes and possible co-conspirators.

“She had an opportunity today to answer questions that every American has,” Comer said. “She chose to invoke her Fifth Amendment.”

Maxwell is currently serving a 20-year federal prison sentence in Texas.

Legal Strategy and Clemency Push

Republican Rep. Andy Biggs said Maxwell’s attorney cited her pending habeas corpus petition as the reason for refusing to testify. Her legal team has repeatedly suggested she would cooperate if granted presidential clemency.

In a January letter to the committee, Maxwell’s attorney wrote that clemency would make her “willing — and eager — to testify openly and honestly before Congress.”

Trump and Clinton Cleared in Statement

Biggs said Maxwell’s attorney read a statement asserting that Maxwell has no knowledge of wrongdoing by either President Donald Trump or former President Bill Clinton. Maxwell previously made similar claims during a Justice Department proffer session last summer.

Bipartisan Opposition to Clemency

Democrats sharply criticized Maxwell’s renewed clemency bid. Rep. Suhas Subramanyam said her refusal to testify was directly tied to hopes of a pardon.

“She should have no hope of ever getting out of prison,” Subramanyam said.

Comer also urged against any form of clemency or immunity, citing meetings with Epstein survivors who opposed leniency.

Investigation Moves Forward

Despite Maxwell’s silence, Comer said the committee’s investigation will continue. Upcoming depositions include retail billionaire Leslie Wexner on Feb. 18, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on Feb. 26, and former President Bill Clinton on Feb. 27, along with Epstein’s former accountant and lawyer.

“We’re not done,” Rep. Jasmine Crockett said. “We’re going to continue to go.”

For more on this criminal case, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Trump Slams Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Halftime Show as ‘Slap in the Face’

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President Donald Trump sharply criticized Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl LX halftime performance, calling it “absolutely terrible” and “one of the worst, EVER” in a social media post Sunday night.

Trump described the show as a “slap in the face to our country,” arguing it failed to reflect what he called American standards of “success, creativity, or excellence.” He also took aim at the predominantly Spanish-language performance, writing that “nobody understands a word this guy is saying” and labeling the choreography “disgusting,” particularly for children watching worldwide.

A Performance Rooted in Puerto Rican Culture

Bad Bunny headlined the Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, transforming the global stage into a celebration of Puerto Rican identity and broader Latin American culture.

The Grammy-winning artist performed a high-energy set largely in Spanish, moving through immersive visuals that included sugar cane fields and a traditional piragua shaved ice stand—both symbols closely tied to Caribbean heritage.

A Message of Perseverance and Belief

Early in the performance, Bad Bunny reflected on his rise to the Super Bowl stage, telling viewers in Spanish, “It’s because I never, never stopped believing in myself—and you too should believe in yourself.”

His set featured several of his biggest hits, including “BAILE INoLVIDABLE” and “NUEVAYoL,” performed in front of a market-style backdrop labeled “La Marqueta.”

Celebrating the Americas on a Global Stage

The show concluded with a visual tribute to countries across the Americas, moving from Chile in the southern hemisphere to Canada in the north, before ending with Puerto Rico, Bad Bunny’s birthplace.

Fireworks closed out the performance during his hit song “DtMF,” marking one of the night’s most visually striking moments.

Special Guests and Surprise Moments

Lady Gaga joined Bad Bunny on the field for a salsa-inspired version of her song “Die With a Smile,” followed by an appearance from Latin music star Ricky Martin. In another standout moment, Bad Bunny handed a Grammy Award to a young boy onstage, symbolizing his recent success and future generations.

Conservative Backlash Continues

Bad Bunny has faced sustained criticism from conservative figures since being announced as the Super Bowl halftime performer last year. Trump’s comments mark the latest and most high-profile backlash, underscoring the ongoing cultural and political debate surrounding representation, language, and identity on America’s biggest entertainment stage.

For the latest on entertainment, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Spring-like pattern continues this week, including foggy mornings and warm afternoons

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HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — This spring-like pattern continues this week, which means we’ll keep sunshine and warm afternoons in the forecast plus the chance for morning fog each day, especially along the coast. There are also two storm systems that will sweep across Texas this week, bringing the chance for showers and storms to Houston.

A Dense Fog Advisory is in place for many Southeast Texas counties until 9 am. The fog will be a daily occurrence and the warm and humid pattern remains through most of the week. Some coastl areas may see the fog linger well into the afternoon. Besides, that, Monday will be another partly cloudy and warm day with high temperatures near 80 degrees in the afternoon.

Will we see more fog this week?

Very likely. We expect at least a few more mornings where dense fog could be an issue for morning commuters.

When can we expect rain this week?

There are two storm systems that could bring showers and storms to Southeast Texas this week. The first will move through Tuesday into Wednesday, bringing scattered showers late Tuesday evening and into early Wednesday morning. And while we can’t rule out an isolated storm or two, it looks like instability to produce widespread heavy showers and storms will be limited this time. The second storm system arrive heading into the weekend with the chance for showers and storms on Saturday. This particular weather setup looks to favor the chance for heavier downpours and thunderstorms too, which is something we’ll be monitoring closely with for both Valentine’s Day and Mardi Gras festivities.

Could we get another freeze this season?

Sure, but we likely have to wait until near the end of February for our next chance of freezing if it were to occur.

13 ALERT RADAR MAPS:
Southeast Texas
Houston
Harris County
Galveston County
Montgomery/Walker/San Jacinto/Polk/Grimes Counties
Fort Bend/Wharton/Colorado Counties
Brazoria/Matagorda Counties

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This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

For more Houston headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine!

Shots ring out at unauthorized car meet-up in N. Houston, killing 1 teenager, HPD says

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — The Houston Police Department said a teenager is dead after shots were fired at an unauthorized car-meetup in the Greenspoint area on Monday.

Officials said the shooting happened at about 1 a.m. at the old Greenspoint Mall parking lot in the 200 block of Greens Road.

At one point, HPD says, gunshots were fired near the area, and one person, who police said was in his late teens, was hit and was pronounced dead at the scene.

RELATED: Law enforcement investigate 2 separate weekend deadly parking lot takeovers

It is unclear what led to shots being fired, officials said.

HPD says there are no suspect descriptions, as those who were participating fled the area after hearing the gunshots. Lt. J.P. Horelica said there could be a possibility that the cars that were there were also hit with bullets.

The parking lot is reportedly a regular Sunday meeting spot for meet-ups and “reckless driving,” HPD said. Horelica said it is not uncommon for officers to be dispatched to that area to break it up.

SEE ALSO: Northwest Houston residents want dangerous parking lot takeovers to end: ‘It makes it hard to sleep’

“Constantly, on Sundays, North Belt patrol dispatches to this parking lot regarding meetups and reckless driving. They come out here regularly on Sundays and run everybody off, and end up making arrests when they can,” Horelica said.

HPD is urging anyone with information regarding the shooting to come forward and contact law enforcement.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

For more Houston stories, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine and ABC13 Houston.

Media as a Bridge: How Houston Outlets Strengthen Hispanic Cultural Identity

Media as a Bridge: How Houston Outlets Strengthen Hispanic Cultural Identity

Houston’s Hispanic news isn’t just about headlines—it’s the heartbeat of a community keeping its roots alive. When media reflects your culture in both Spanish and English, it builds more than awareness; it creates a space where stories, traditions, and voices thrive. Que Onda Magazine stands at this crossroads, connecting you to local events, small businesses, and the shared pride that shapes Houston’s Latino community. For more insights on Hispanic media, check this resource.

Media’s Role in Cultural Identity

Media plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting cultural identity within the Hispanic community. It serves as a bridge, connecting people to their roots while engaging them in the present.

Bilingual Media’s Impact on Access

Imagine a world where everyone can access news in their preferred language. Bilingual media makes this a reality. For many in Houston’s Hispanic community, having news available in both Spanish and English is key. It ensures everyone stays informed, regardless of their language preference. This approach not only keeps the community informed but also strengthens cultural ties.

With platforms like Que Onda Magazine, access to news becomes inclusive. It’s not just about translating words but conveying the essence of the story. Bilingual media helps break down barriers, allowing more people to participate in discussions that matter. By offering content in two languages, media outlets ensure that no one is left out of the conversation. This inclusivity fosters a sense of belonging and empowers individuals to engage more deeply with their community.

Community Storytelling and Pride

Every community has stories to tell, and these stories are the threads that weave together cultural identity. In Houston, storytelling is more than just reporting events; it’s about capturing the essence of the Latino experience. Que Onda Magazine excels at this by sharing narratives that resonate with its readers. These stories highlight achievements, struggles, and everything in between, strengthening the community’s pride.

When you read about local heroes and cultural celebrations, it reinforces a sense of identity and unity. Houston’s Hispanic community thrives on pride in its heritage, and storytelling is a powerful tool to keep that pride alive. By showcasing real-life experiences, media outlets like Que Onda create a tapestry of shared history and aspirations.

Celebrating Houston’s Latino Heritage

Houston’s rich Latino heritage is celebrated through vibrant events and community news. These celebrations are a testament to the city’s diverse cultural landscape.

Hispanic Events and Community News

Houston is a city where Hispanic events are not just dates on a calendar but milestones of cultural expression. From lively festivals to insightful community gatherings, there’s always something happening. Que Onda Magazine keeps you in the loop with up-to-date news on these events. Whether it’s a music festival or a local art exhibit, the magazine provides all the details you need to join the celebration.

These events are more than entertainment; they are opportunities to connect with others who share your values and heritage. Attending local events fosters a sense of belonging and allows you to experience the richness of Latino culture firsthand. By participating, you contribute to the vibrancy of the community and help preserve its unique traditions.

Local Hispanic Advertising Strategies

Advertising plays a pivotal role in connecting businesses with the Hispanic community in Houston. Tailored strategies ensure that messages resonate and engage effectively. Que Onda Magazine offers unique advertising opportunities that cater to the interests of its readers. By understanding the cultural nuances, advertisers can create campaigns that truly speak to the community.

Successful advertising goes beyond selling a product; it’s about building relationships. Businesses that invest in culturally relevant ads can foster loyalty and trust within the community. Que Onda’s approach to advertising highlights the benefits of targeting a specific audience with messages that align with their values and interests. For an in-depth look at effective strategies, explore this guide on Hispanic social media marketing.

Engaging with Que Onda Magazine

Que Onda Magazine is more than a publication; it’s a gateway to cultural engagement and connection.

Subscribing to Bilingual News

Subscribing to Que Onda Magazine opens doors to a world of bilingual journalism. It ensures you receive news that matters in both Spanish and English. This dual-language approach caters to diverse households, making it easier for everyone to stay informed. By inviting this resource into your home, you’re welcoming a tool that bridges generational gaps and keeps everyone in the loop.

Subscribing also means supporting a publication dedicated to your community. Que Onda offers more than news; it provides stories that speak directly to your cultural identity. This connection enhances your understanding of local and global events, delivered with a focus on relevance and resonance.

Partnering for Cultural Coverage

Partnerships are vital for extending cultural coverage and impact. Que Onda Magazine collaborates with local organizations to amplify voices and tell stories that matter. By partnering with the magazine, community leaders and businesses can reach a broader audience. These collaborations ensure that cultural narratives remain a focal point in media coverage.

Partnering with Que Onda means aligning with a trusted voice in Houston’s Hispanic community. It provides an avenue to showcase initiatives and stories that highlight cultural achievements. Together, these partnerships nurture a vibrant media landscape where diverse stories are shared and celebrated. For more insights on the portrayal of Latinos in media, this resource offers valuable perspectives.

In summary, Que Onda Magazine stands as a beacon of cultural identity, bridging gaps within the Houston Latino community. Through bilingual media, community storytelling, and strategic partnerships, it fosters pride and connection, ensuring that Hispanic culture thrives in the heart of Houston.

Seahawks Capture Second Super Bowl Title With Defensive Masterclass Over Patriots

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SANTA CLARA, Calif. — The Seattle Seahawks are Super Bowl champions once again, overpowering the New England Patriots 29–13 in a defense-driven victory at Super Bowl LX.

In a game where offense came at a premium, Seattle’s suffocating unit — nicknamed the “Dark Side” defense — set the tone early and never let up. The Seahawks held New England scoreless through three quarters, forced three turnovers, and sacked Patriots quarterback Drake Maye six times, sealing one of the most dominant defensive performances in Super Bowl history.

Defense Delivers the Difference

Seattle’s defense overwhelmed the Patriots from start to finish, allowing New England into the red zone only once — in the final three minutes of the game. The unit generated constant pressure and tight coverage, with standout performances from Devon Witherspoon, Byron Murphy, and Derick Hall.

Two of New England’s turnovers directly led to touchdowns, while another set up a field goal, allowing Seattle to steadily build an insurmountable lead.

Kenneth Walker Powers the Offense

While the defense dominated, Kenneth Walker III carried the Seahawks offensively. With fellow running back Zach Charbonnet sidelined, Walker embraced a bell-cow role, totaling 161 yards on 29 touches. His physical, consistent running helped Seattle control the clock and wear down New England’s defense.

Quarterback Sam Darnold played a steady, mistake-free game, doing just enough to complement Walker and avoid giving the Patriots any momentum.

Jason Myers Makes History

Seattle kicker Jason Myers was nearly automatic, setting a Super Bowl record with five field goals. Head coach Mike Macdonald repeatedly opted to take points, a decision that paid off as New England’s offense struggled to respond.

At just 38 years old, Macdonald became the third-youngest head coach in NFL history to win a Super Bowl, further cementing his rapid rise.

Patriots Fall Short Under Pressure

Maye finished with 295 passing yards and two touchdowns, but his night was marred by three turnovers, including a critical interception and a strip-sack returned for a touchdown in the fourth quarter. Persistent breakdowns along New England’s offensive line proved costly, an issue the franchise will need to address heading into the 2026 season.

A Championship Built on Defense

Seattle’s second Lombardi Trophy was earned the same way as its first: through relentless defense, disciplined coaching, and a dominant ground game. In Super Bowl LX, the Seahawks reminded the league that championships can still be won by controlling the trenches — and punishing mistakes.

For the latest sports news, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Bad Bunny Brings Reggaeton, Salsa, and a Message of Unity to the Super Bowl LX Halftime Show

SANTA CLARA, Calif. — Bad Bunny turned the Super Bowl LX halftime show into a powerful celebration of Latin music, culture, and resilience, delivering a genre-spanning performance that blended reggaeton, salsa, and social commentary on one of the world’s biggest stages.

The Puerto Rican superstar kicked off the set with his hit “Tití Me Preguntó,” immediately electrifying the stadium, before moving into the feminist anthem “Yo Perreo Sola,” a song that has become synonymous with empowerment and creative freedom.

A Stage Rooted in Latin Identity

The elaborate stage design drew heavily from the visuals and themes of Bad Bunny’s Grammy-winning album “Debí Tirar Más Fotos,” which earned Album of the Year honors at the 2026 Grammys. Palm trees and banana trees dominated the setting, evoking Caribbean landscapes and reinforcing the album’s focus on memory, heritage, and belonging.

Paying Tribute to Reggaeton’s Roots

Midway through the performance, Bad Bunny paused for a brief playback segment he described as “the music of Puerto Rico.” The interlude honored the pioneers who helped bring reggaeton to the global mainstream, featuring snippets of influential tracks such as Tego Calderón’s “Pa’ Que Retozen” and Daddy Yankee’s “Gasolina.” The moment which preceded his song “EoO” served as a nod to the island’s lasting impact on modern music and the artists who paved the way for today’s global Latin sound.

Honoring Puerto Rico’s Struggles

One of the most striking moments came during “Apagón,” a song referencing the widespread blackouts that followed Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico. As the track played, light poles onstage flickered and malfunctioned, symbolizing the island’s ongoing infrastructure challenges.

Bad Bunny dramatically climbed one of the poles, singing and dancing atop it — a visual tribute to resilience amid adversity.

Star-Studded Guest Appearances

The halftime show featured surprise guest performances by Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin. Gaga joined for a during a salsa-inspired rendition of her collaboration with Bruno Mars, “Die with a Smile,” which ended with both stars dancing a salsa duet to the tune of Bad Bunny’s “Baile Inolvidable” while Martin brought his signature Latin pop presence to the stage.

Several high-profile celebrities were also seen dancing — or perreando — alongside Bad Bunny, including Karol G, Jessica Alba, Pedro Pascal, and Cardi B, further amplifying the celebratory atmosphere.

A Message Beyond Music

Bad Bunny closed the performance with “Debí Tirar Más Fotos,” shifting from spectacle to reflection. A massive billboard behind him echoed his Grammy acceptance speech with the message:
“The only thing more powerful than hate is love.”

Before Bad Bunny exited the stage alongside a crowd dancing, the artist named a list of American countries and tossed a football marked “Together we are America” onto the ground as people on stage waved flags of American countries, underscoring a message of unity across cultures, borders, and identities.

A Halftime Show to Remember

Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl LX halftime show stood as a landmark moment — not just for Latin music, but for representation on one of the world’s most influential platforms. By honoring Puerto Rico’s past, confronting its present struggles, and celebrating the power of love and community, he delivered a performance that resonated far beyond Levi’s Stadium.

For the latest on music and celebrities, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Houston Playbook: Strategies Local Businesses Can Use to Reach Hispanic Consumers Effectively

Houston Playbook: Strategies Local Businesses Can Use to Reach Hispanic Consumers Effectively

Most local businesses miss the mark when trying to connect with Houston’s Hispanic market. You might be spending time and money without seeing real results because your message isn’t hitting the right cultural notes. This playbook breaks down practical strategies for Hispanic advertising Houston, showing you how to speak directly to Houston Latino consumers with bilingual marketing Houston trusts.

Understanding Houston’s Hispanic Market

To connect with Houston’s Hispanic market effectively, it’s crucial to understand its unique characteristics. This community is not just large; it’s diverse and vibrant, offering both challenges and opportunities for businesses.

Key Demographics and Insights

Houston’s Hispanic community is a major part of the city’s identity. With over 2.3 million people, they form nearly 45% of the population. This group is young, with a median age of 28, compared to the city’s overall median age of 34. Many Hispanic households are bilingual, with Spanish being predominantly spoken at home. This demographic is growing and represents significant buying power, making it an influential market for local businesses.

Cultural traditions and family-oriented values play a big role in daily life. Many Hispanic consumers prefer brands that understand and respect their cultural heritage. By acknowledging these preferences, businesses can create more meaningful connections. For example, offering products or services that cater to family gatherings or cultural celebrations can resonate deeply.

Cultural Nuances in Marketing

Connecting with the Hispanic community means more than just translating content into Spanish. It involves understanding cultural nuances that influence purchasing decisions. Storytelling that reflects shared experiences and cultural pride can be particularly effective.

For instance, many in the community value personal recommendations, often seeking advice from family and friends before making purchases. This means that word-of-mouth and community endorsements can be powerful tools. Utilizing testimonials from local Hispanic influencers or community members can enhance credibility and trust.

Strategies for Effective Engagement

Once you understand the community’s fabric, it’s time to implement strategies that speak directly to them. Effective engagement requires thoughtful planning and execution.

Crafting Bilingual Campaigns

Creating bilingual campaigns isn’t just about language translation. It’s about crafting messages that are culturally relevant and resonate with your audience’s values. Start by ensuring your marketing materials reflect the diversity within Houston’s Hispanic community. Use images and stories that showcase a range of Hispanic cultures and experiences.

Involve bilingual staff in the creation process to ensure messages are authentic. By doing so, you not only cater to Spanish-speaking consumers but also connect with English-speaking Hispanics who appreciate culturally thoughtful content. Remember, bilingual marketing Houston trusts is about bridging language and culture.

Leveraging Local Media Channels

Local media plays a pivotal role in reaching Hispanic audiences. Platforms like Que Onda Magazine provide trusted sources of information in the community. Partnering with these outlets can enhance your reach and credibility.

Consider using a mix of traditional and digital channels. Radio, television, and print are still valuable, especially when combined with digital platforms like social media and online news. Tailoring your message to fit the medium and the audience’s preferences ensures maximum impact. Collaborate with local Hispanic media to create content that not only advertises but also educates and engages.

Building Lasting Community Connections

Beyond marketing, building genuine relationships within the community is key. This involves being present and active in local events and organizations.

Partnering with Hispanic Organizations

Collaborate with Hispanic organizations that align with your business values. These partnerships can open doors to new audiences and provide insights into community needs. They also demonstrate your commitment to supporting the community beyond business interests.

Participating in local initiatives or sponsoring community programs can position your brand as a community ally. It shows that you care about the same issues that matter to your audience, fostering loyalty and trust.

Hosting and Sponsoring Community Events

Engagement thrives in shared experiences. Hosting or sponsoring local events can create meaningful interactions with Houston’s Hispanic community. Whether it’s a cultural festival, a family-oriented event, or a community fundraiser, these gatherings offer opportunities to connect on a personal level.

When sponsoring events, ensure your brand presence is culturally sensitive and adds value to the event. Offer bilingual support staff, culturally relevant products or services, and interactive experiences that resonate with attendees. This approach not only increases brand visibility but also strengthens community ties.

In conclusion, engaging Houston’s Hispanic market effectively requires an understanding of cultural nuances and a commitment to authentic relationships. By implementing these strategies, your business can thrive in one of the nation’s most dynamic and diverse markets.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom Declares ‘Bad Bunny Day’ Ahead of Super Bowl LX, Trolls Trump

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.