Speaker Mike Johnson accuses NFL of turning ‘anti-American’ after picking Bad Bunny for Super Bowl halftime show

The controversy surrounding Bad Bunny’s selection as the headliner for the 2026 continues to grow — this time, drawing criticism from House Speaker . The Louisiana Republican joined a wave of conservative voices denouncing the NFL’s decision, calling it inappropriate and politically charged.

Mike Johnson questions NFL’s cultural direction with Bad Bunny pick

When asked by reporters for his reaction, Johnson didn’t hold back. “I didn’t even know who Bad Bunny was, but it sounds like a terrible decision, in my view,” he said. He went on to suggest that a more suitable performer would have been country star Lee Greenwood, known for his patriotic anthem “God Bless the U.S.A.”, a song often played at Donald Trump’s rallies.






Johnson argued that the NFL’s choice fails to reflect traditional American values or appeal to mainstream 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,” the Speaker remarked.

His comments echo growing frustration among conservative lawmakers who see the halftime show as a cultural battleground. To them, choosing Bad Bunny, a Puerto Rican artist who frequently performs in Spanish and has been outspoken on political and social issues, symbolizes what they call the NFL’s “liberal drift.”

Bad Bunny’s performance sparks political and cultural debate

Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, is one of the world’s most-streamed artists, rivaling Taylor Swift and Morgan Wallen in global popularity. Yet his upcoming performance has triggered backlash from Trump supporters who accuse the NFL of intentionally provoking MAGA voters.



The Latin superstar has previously criticized Donald Trump’s immigration policies and expressed hesitation about touring in the U.S. due to concerns about ICE enforcement. Those comments resurfaced after Trump allies, including Johnson, renewed calls for “more patriotic” performers.

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As tensions mount ahead of the February 2026 Super Bowl, the debate reflects more than entertainment preferences, it’s a clash of identity, politics, and culture. For the NFL, the decision to feature Bad Bunny marks a bold step toward global inclusivity. For critics, it’s a move that “alienates traditional America.”
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