MAGA's Alternative Super Bowl Halftime Show: A Protest Against Bad Bunny
The right-wing political organisation Turning Point USA has announced plans to stage a rival Super Bowl halftime show in direct protest of the NFL's selection of Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny as the main performer. Dubbed 'The All-American Halftime Show', this event is scheduled for February 8, 2026, coinciding with the Super Bowl where the New England Patriots will face the Seattle Seahawks.
Conservative Outrage Fuels Alternative Event
The initiative stems from significant conservative backlash following the NFL's decision to feature Bad Bunny, a Spanish-language rapper and singer. Many Republican figures have criticised the artist, labelling him a 'massive Donald Trump hater' and an 'anti-ICE activist', while also expressing disapproval over his lack of English-language songs. In response, Turning Point USA, founded by the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk, revealed its alternative show last October, aiming to celebrate themes of 'faith, family and freedom'.
Lineup and Broadcast Details
The performance lineup for The All-American Halftime Show includes prominent country and rock artists known for their conservative leanings. Kid Rock, a vocal supporter of Donald Trump, will headline alongside fellow country singers Brantley Gilbert, Lee Brice, and Gabby Barrett. Kid Rock's friendship with Trump, including golf outings and campaign rallies, has been well-documented, with Trump affectionately referring to him by the nickname 'Bob'.
While the exact venue remains undisclosed, the show will be broadcast across four conservative networks: Charge!, DailyWire+, TBN, and Real America's Voice. Additionally, it will stream on Turning Point USA's social media channels, such as YouTube, X, and Rumble. The broadcast is expected to air within the same time window as the traditional Super Bowl halftime show, typically between 8:00 and 8:30 PM Eastern Time.
NFL's Defiance and Political Reactions
Despite criticism from Trump and other conservatives, the NFL has stood firm in its decision to feature Bad Bunny. In a move that further defies political pressure, the organisation has added rock band Green Day—longtime critics of Trump—to the Super Bowl lineup for a special 60th-anniversary tribute during the opening ceremony. Trump, confirming he will not attend the game, expressed his disapproval to the New York Post, stating, 'I'm anti-them. I think it's a terrible choice. All it does is sow hatred. Terrible.'
Speculation and Previous Appearances
There had been earlier speculation that performers might include Carrie Underwood, who controversially sang 'America the Beautiful' at Trump's 2025 swearing-in ceremony, or Nicki Minaj, who made a surprise appearance at Turning Point USA's AmericaFest 2025. Minaj has voiced 'respect and admiration' for Trump, adding to the political undertones of the event.
As part of its promotion, Turning Point USA has launched a website where users can sign up for updates. One question on the form asks about preferred music genres, with options including:
- Anything in English
- Americana
- Classic Rock
- Country
- Hip Hop
- Pop
- Worship
With just under a week until the event, details are gradually emerging, highlighting the deepening intersection of politics and entertainment in major cultural spectacles like the Super Bowl.
