Super Bowl 2026 Faces Concerns Over Immigration Enforcement and Halftime Show Politics

The upcoming Super Bowl in San Francisco is shaping up to be more than just a football game, with issues like ICE raids and the controversial halftime performer Bad Bunny taking center stage.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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As excitement builds for Super Bowl LX in San Francisco, the event is becoming increasingly political. Concerns are mounting over potential immigration enforcement actions by ICE, despite assurances from the NFL. The selection of Bad Bunny as the halftime performer has also sparked debate, with conservative groups organizing an 'alternative' show. The Super Bowl is no longer insulated from the broader cultural and political divisions shaping the national conversation.

Why it matters

The intersection of sports, entertainment, and politics at the Super Bowl reflects a broader trend of cultural and political clashes spilling over into high-profile events. The heightened concerns over ICE activity and the controversy surrounding the halftime performer highlight the divisive nature of these issues and the challenges the NFL faces in navigating them.

The details

Concerns are mounting regarding potential actions by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) around the Super Bowl. Despite assurances from NFL Chief Security Officer Cathie Lanier that no immigration enforcement operations are planned, anxieties remain high, fueled by past ICE actions in other cities. The possibility of ICE conducting raids has prompted community organizations to urge vigilance. The selection of Bad Bunny as the Super Bowl LXI halftime performer has also ignited political debate. The artist's outspoken views and advocacy for immigrant rights have drawn criticism from conservative circles. Turning Point USA, a conservative youth organization, is even organizing an 'alternative halftime show' featuring Kid Rock, signaling a deliberate attempt to counter Bad Bunny's message.

  • The Super Bowl LX is scheduled to take place on February 2, 2026 in San Francisco.
  • Corey Lewandowski, an advisor to the Homeland Security Secretary, previously stated that ICE would 'find' and 'deport' individuals residing in the country illegally, even at events like the Super Bowl.
  • Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem echoed this sentiment, suggesting only 'law-abiding Americans' should attend the Super Bowl.

The players

Cathie Lanier

NFL Chief Security Officer who has assured that no immigration enforcement operations are planned for the Super Bowl.

Corey Lewandowski

An advisor to the Homeland Security Secretary who stated that ICE would 'find' and 'deport' individuals residing in the country illegally, even at events like the Super Bowl.

Kristi Noem

Homeland Security Secretary who suggested only 'law-abiding Americans' should attend the Super Bowl.

Bad Bunny

The artist selected as the Super Bowl LXI halftime performer, known for his outspoken views and advocacy for immigrant rights.

Turning Point USA

A conservative youth organization that is organizing an 'alternative halftime show' featuring Kid Rock to counter Bad Bunny's message.

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What they’re saying

“We must find and deport individuals residing in the country illegally, even at events like the Super Bowl.”

— Corey Lewandowski, Advisor to the Homeland Security Secretary

“Only law-abiding Americans should attend the Super Bowl.”

— Kristi Noem, Homeland Security Secretary

What’s next

Community organizations are urging vigilance and are providing legal resources for immigrants concerned about potential ICE activity during the Super Bowl.

The takeaway

The increasing politicization of the Super Bowl reflects a broader trend of cultural and political clashes spilling over into the realm of sports and entertainment. This year's event highlights the challenges the NFL faces in navigating divisive issues while trying to maintain the game's focus on athletic achievement.