Gavin Newsom thanks Bad Bunny for his Super Bowl performance, calls it ‘America, the beautiful’

SANTA CLAIR, CALIFORNIA: Gavin Newsom shared a post on social media praising Bad Bunny for his 2026 Super Bowl performance on Sunday, February 8. He “thanked” the rapper on X (formerly Twitter).

Newsom posted shortly after the show ended, as Bad Bunny’s performance drew significant attention online. Donald Trump also weighed in on Truth Social, calling the performance “absolutely terrible.”

Newsom additionally shared a photo on X showing Bad Bunny holding a football that read, ‘Together, we are American.’

Gavin Newsom backs Bad Bunny amid Super Bowl backlash

Gavin Newsom shared a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, February 8 (ET), praising Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl performance. He wrote, "America, the beautiful. Thank you, Bad Bunny."

The post quickly gained traction, reaching one million views within a few hours. Newsom’s message signaled support for Bad Bunny despite backlash over the Super Bowl halftime show. The governor’s press office also declared Super Bowl Sunday as “Bad Bunny Day.”

"As many people know, I am a tremendous lover of “the Spanish.” It is a beautiful language spoken by many beautiful people in the great state of California and across the world. I am also a huge fan of Puerrrrrrrto Rico."

"That is why I am declaring tomorrow in California as “Bad Bunny Day” when Bad Bunny performs at the big game in the Golden State with his soothing, beautiful voice, and his very nice looks."

"Many people can’t stop talking about him according to my “guys” and “gals!” (Jesse Watters is obsessed with him almost as much as he is with me!). We love Bad Bunny! He is nearly as “hot” as me, which is a big compliment, because there is nobody “hotter.” Happy Bad Bunny Day, America. Enjoy!!! –Governor GCN"

Bad Bunny infuses Latin energy into Super Bowl halftime

Bad Bunny brought high energy and Latin flair to the Super Bowl halftime show, performing many of his biggest hits back to back. His set blended reggaetón and Latin rhythms, with visuals and staging that highlighted Puerto Rican culture.

Lady Gaga joined the Puerto Rican artist for a salsa-style version of her song 'Die With a Smile,' while Ricky Martin also appeared later in the show.

At the end of the performance, Bad Bunny celebrated his homeland, saying, “Mi Patria Puerto Rico, seguimos aquí,” which translates to “My homeland Puerto Rico, we are still here.”