Turning Point USA, a conservative advocacy group, has disclosed an all-star lineup for its "All American Halftime Show," set to provide an alternative viewing option during the Super Bowl's halftime. Scheduled to perform are musicians Kid Rock, Brantley Gilbert, Lee Brice, and Gabby Barrett. The announcement, made on Monday, aims to offer a patriotic counter-programming to the NFL's choice of Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny, who has been a topic of debate recently.
"They suck, we’ll win and God will bless us and we’ll stand and be proud of ourselves at the end of the day and they won’t be able to sleep at night," said DHS Secretary Kristi Noem.
This alternative event will be available for streaming via platforms such as Rumble and Real America’s Voice, allowing viewers to opt for different halftime entertainment. The move by TPUSA comes in the wake of ongoing controversy surrounding the NFL's pick for the halftime show. Bad Bunny has been at the center of attention for his cross-dressing performances and vocal opposition to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Despite the criticism, the NFL has maintained its stance, defending the selection of Bad Bunny for the halftime show, citing his "massive global outreach." This defense was articulated by league officials in a statement to ESPN.
The discussion was further fueled by comments from Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who, during a January appearance on "The Benny Johnson Show," criticized the NFL’s decision and announced that ICE agents would be present at the Super Bowl venue. Noem's remarks also included strong language against those opposing her views, implying a moral victory for supporters of the ICE presence.
Bad Bunny's anti-ICE rhetoric was heightened during the recent Grammy Awards ceremony, where he made a statement "ICE Out" during his acceptance speech. His stance on ICE has been consistent, with previous declarations of avoiding tours in mainland U.S. venues due to concerns over ICE raids at his concerts. His music too reflects his political views, as seen in his song "Nuevayol," which features a portrayal of President Trump while addressing immigrants.
The idea for TPUSA's competing show was first put forward in October as a direct response to Bad Bunny's scheduled NFL performance. According to TPUSA leaders, their event is designed to promote pro-American values and cater to people of faith, aiming to provide patriotic entertainment during the halftime slot.
President Trump commented on the NFL’s halftime show selection on October 6, describing the lineup as “absolutely ridiculous.” His remarks were shared on social media platforms, reflecting his disapproval of the NFL's entertainment choices.
As this story unfolds, it highlights the intersection of politics, entertainment, and national identity at one of America's most-watched events. The differing perspectives on what constitutes appropriate entertainment at such a venue underscore deeper divisions within the cultural and political landscape of the United States.
