Kasich Praises Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Performance

Former Ohio governor and 2016 presidential hopeful John Kasich recently expressed his admiration for Bad Bunny’s halftime show during Super Bowl LX in a post on X. The NFL’s choice to feature the Puerto Rican artist, who primarily performs in Spanish, has been contentious, drawing criticism from some conservative circles. Notably, Turning Point USA, a conservative student organization, even organized an alternative halftime event in response.

During the game, Kasich tweeted that he loved Bad Bunny’s performance for celebrating Latin culture, remarking that the artist “hit a grand slam home run.”

I love the halftime show, which celebrates the great Latinx culture. Great selection and great show. Bad Bunny hit a bases loaded home run!

— John Kasich (@JohnKasich) February 9, 2026

Bad Bunny’s performance, mostly in Spanish—except for a brief appearance by Lady Gaga—was staged on a farm set, complete with actors portraying farm workers. The scene included street vendors selling food and jewelry and a grocery store prominently featuring a neon sign that said, “We Accept EBT.” The rapper, whose real name is Benito Martinez Ocasio, concluded the show with, “God bless America,” while mentioning various countries in the Western Hemisphere.

Criticism of Kasich’s praise surfaced quickly on X. Former MLB pitcher John Rocker responded with a dismissive remark, highlighting the lack of success in Kasich’s presidential campaign.

Shut up John. Bad Bunny’s performance was as successful as your run for president.

— John Rocker (@itsJohnRocker) February 9, 2026

Kasich’s own presidential bid in 2016 was largely unsuccessful, with his primary victory limited to Ohio. He was the last Republican contestant to challenge Trump before withdrawing in May 2016.

Former President Donald Trump also criticized the halftime show, calling it an “insult to the greatness of America” on Truth Social. He claimed the performance was incomprehensible and inappropriate for young viewers.

After losing the primary to Trump, Kasich became a vocal critic of the former president, notably endorsing Joe Biden at the 2020 Democratic National Convention. He described that election as a pivotal moment for the nation, emphasizing concerns that Trump’s re-election would lead to further division and dysfunction in the country.