Americans are sharply divided on the NFL’s decision to feature Puerto Rican-born artist Bad Bunny at the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show, according to a new survey by Quinnipiac University. The poll reveals a nation split along partisan lines, with nearly three-quarters of Democrats supporting the decision, while over three-fifths of Republicans disapprove.

The survey, conducted between October 16 and 20, sampled 1,519 adults and has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.3 percentage points. It indicates that 29 percent of respondents overall disapprove of the NFL's choice, with another 24 percent remaining neutral. The strongest approval for Bad Bunny comes from younger adults aged 18-34 and is notably higher among Black and Hispanic adults compared to white respondents.

This cultural divide extends into the political arena, where the choice of Bad Bunny, a vocal critic of the Trump administration's immigration policies, has reignited tensions. The artist's decision to avoid mainland U.S. tour dates over immigration enforcement concerns and his satirical portrayal of Trump in his music video “NUEVAYoL” have made him a contentious figure among conservatives.

The announcement of his Super Bowl performance was met with immediate backlash from MAGA supporters, including former President Donald Trump, who described the decision as “absolutely ridiculous” in a recent interview with Newsmax’s Greg Kelly. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem also commented, warning of a significant ICE presence at the event.

In response to the NFL's decision, conservative group Turning Point USA announced plans for a counterprogramming halftime show, though details about the performers remain undisclosed. The NFL, under Commissioner Roger Goodell, has reiterated its commitment to proceeding with Bad Bunny as the halftime performer despite the conservative pushback.

This polarization over the halftime show underscores the broader cultural and political fissures within the country. The NFL's repeated clashes with the MAGA movement, particularly concerning national anthem protests and player activism, reflect ongoing debates over identity, patriotism, and free speech. As the 2026 Super Bowl approaches, the selection of Bad Bunny not only highlights these divisions but also poses questions about the role of major sporting events in America's cultural wars.