President Donald Trump has dropped a surprising announcement that’s sure to stir conversation among football fans nationwide.
Trump revealed in an exclusive Oval Office interview with The Post that he will not attend this year’s Super Bowl, the NFL championship game set for Feb. 8 in San Francisco.
He expressed dissatisfaction with the halftime performers, Latin rap superstar Bad Bunny and the recently added Green Day, describing their selection as disappointing. While noting their criticism of him, Trump clarified that his primary reason for skipping the event is the distance, not the musicians.
The issue has sparked debate over whether personal or logistical reasons truly drive Trump’s decision. While he has attended past games, including last year’s matchup in New Orleans between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles, this year’s event seems out of reach. The Eagles took the win in that game, despite cheers from pop star Taylor Swift for her boyfriend, Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce.
Trump didn’t hold back on his thoughts about the halftime lineup, pointing to Bad Bunny, often called the “King of Latin Trap,” and Green Day as poor choices, the New York Post reported.
Born in Puerto Rico, Bad Bunny boasts an immense Spanish-language following and has openly opposed Trump, even releasing a song last year titled “Nuevayol” with a mocking imitation of the president. Green Day’s lead singer, Billie Joe Armstrong, also recently supported anti-deportation protesters in Minnesota, further fueling tensions.
Let’s unpack Trump’s sharp words: “I’m anti-them. I think it’s a terrible choice.” His frustration seems rooted in a belief that such performers push division rather than unity at a national event like the Super Bowl.
Now, consider the optics of a halftime show featuring artists who’ve made no secret of their disdain for Trump’s policies.
Bad Bunny’s track “Nuevayol” includes an imitated Trump voice saying, “I want to apologize to the immigrants in America.” It’s a clear jab, and while art should provoke thought, one wonders if the Super Bowl stage is the place for such pointed political commentary.
Green Day’s Armstrong isn’t shy either, recently declaring, “I’m not a part of a redneck agenda.” Such statements, while within his rights, risk alienating a broad swath of viewers who tune in for football, not activism. Shouldn’t an event meant to bring Americans together steer clear of polarizing figures?
Trump, however, insists his absence isn’t about the performers’ views but simple geography. He noted the trek to San Francisco as the real barrier, suggesting he’d attend if the journey were shorter. It’s a practical stance, though some might question if there’s more beneath the surface.
Last year’s Super Bowl in New Orleans saw Trump in the stands, reportedly well-received by fans. His claim of having “great hands” at such events hints at a fondness for the spectacle and the crowd’s energy. Yet, this year, the pull of distance—or perhaps a subtle protest—keeps him away.
Bad Bunny’s massive influence in the Latin music scene can’t be ignored, and his cultural impact resonates with millions. Still, his decision to weave political critique into his work, especially in a song like “Nuevayol,” might not sit well with fans who prefer entertainment over messaging at a game. It’s a fine line between expression and provocation.
Green Day, a late addition to the lineup, brings its own baggage with Armstrong’s outspoken views on national policy debates.
While their music has long challenged authority, the Super Bowl halftime show might not be the ideal platform for such dissent. Viewers deserve a break from the culture wars, don’t they?
