Longtime Trump adviser Corey Lewandowski announced that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents will be deployed at the 2026 Super Bowl, following the news that singer Bad Bunny will headline the halftime show. Lewandowski emphasized that there should be no “safe haven” for people in the country illegally, saying, “We will find you and apprehend you and put you in a detention facility and deport you.” He criticized the current administration’s immigration policies as too lenient compared to previous ones.
Bad Bunny, a three-time Grammy winner, has been openly critical of ICE and omitted U.S. stops from his recent tour out of concern that fans could face detention at his concerts. Lewandowski also condemned the NFL’s choice to feature Bad Bunny, calling him a “polarizing figure” who “seems to hate America.” He argued that the NFL should promote inclusivity rather than division by choosing other entertainers.
Several right-leaning figures, including former NASCAR driver Danica Patrick, also criticized the NFL’s decision, with Patrick opposing the use of songs not in English at one of America’s most-watched events.
In response, NFL executive Jon Barker defended the choice, praising Bad Bunny’s global appeal and cultural influence. The NFL reportedly pursued Taylor Swift for the halftime show but was unsuccessful.
After the announcement, Bad Bunny stated, “This is for my people, my culture, and our history,” highlighting his focus on representation rather than broad inclusivity.