Homeland Security Secretary Critiques Super Bowl Halftime Choice

WASHINGTON – Homeland Security Secretary Christy Noem expressed strong opinions about the NFL’s selection of Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny for the Super Bowl Halftime Show, suggesting that league officials “can’t sleep at night” following their decision.

Noem indicated that immigration and customs enforcement (ICE) agents would be present during the NFL Championship Game, emphasizing that they might challenge record producers by refraining from participating if it risks deportation. “They aren’t strong, and we will prevail. If God is with us, we’ll have no regrets and stand tall in the end,” she remarked in a conversation with conservative commentator Benny Johnson. “Those officials seem uncertain about their beliefs; they’re unsettled, clearly.”

She underscored the Department of Homeland Security’s duty to maintain safety at the event, which will occur at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. “We will enforce the law,” she reiterated, asserting that attendance should ideally be composed of those who respect and love the country and its laws.

White House spokesperson Caroline Leavitt commented that there are “no specific plans” for ICE operations during the Super Bowl.

“As far as I’m aware, there’s no concrete plan related to ICE at the Super Bowl,” Leavitt informed reporters. “However, this administration remains committed to addressing illegal immigration, particularly among individuals with criminal backgrounds.”

Bad Bunny, whose actual name is Benito Antonio Martinez Ocasio, previously revealed concerns about the potential for deportation targeting Latinos during a concert amid former President Trump’s administration. He appreciated connecting with the Latino community in the U.S. but also acknowledged challenges he faced during that period.

“There was a situation regarding my concert,” he mentioned, highlighting ongoing uncertainties he had been worried about.