Florida Republican U.S. Rep. Randy Fine has called for a Federal Communications Commission probe into Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime show, citing alleged indecency in the performance. The demand, made public shortly after the Feb. 8, 2026, event, has intensified debates over broadcast standards and cultural expression.
Fine's letter to FCC Chairman Brendan Carr urged fines and license reviews for the NFL, NBC, and the artist, claiming the show included "pornographic" content unsuitable for family viewing. The controversy has spotlighted Fine's combative style, drawing parallels to his past remarks on international affairs and religious groups.
The FCC reviewed the matter and found no violations of broadcast rules, with no further action planned.
The Super Bowl Halftime Performance
Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, headlined the halftime show at Super Bowl LX in Santa Clara, California, on Feb. 8, 2026. The 13-minute set celebrated Puerto Rican heritage and included hits like a censored version of "Safaera," Daddy Yankee's "Gasolina," and an acoustic rendition of "Lo Que Le Pasó a Hawaii" by Ricky Martin.
The performance featured cultural elements such as a homage to El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico's "Un Verano en Nueva York," symbolizing Puerto Rican migration, and a live wedding onstage. Bad Bunny also handed his Grammy to a young boy, emphasizing opportunity and legacy.
Despite drawing high ratings and praise for its energy and inclusivity, the show faced criticism from some quarters for suggestive choreography and lyrics. President Donald Trump described it as "absolutely terrible" and an "affront to the Greatness of America."
Fine's Complaint and Republican Support
Rep. Fine, representing Florida's 6th Congressional District, announced on Feb. 9, 2026, that he and other Republicans would send a letter to the FCC demanding "dramatic action." He posted on X that the performance was "illegal," attaching translated lyrics from "Safaera" – many of which were not performed or were bleeped out.
Fine argued that if the lyrics had been in English, the broadcast would have been halted with heavy fines. He claimed the show encouraged cocaine use and included the F-word, violations of FCC indecency rules.
Other Republicans echoed the call. Tennessee Rep. Andy Ogles requested a congressional inquiry into the NFL and NBC's approval process, alleging children were exposed to "sexually explicit" themes. Missouri Rep. Mark Alford cited disturbing lyrics in a statement, noting he switched to an alternative broadcast during the show.
The complaints referenced past halftime controversies, such as complaints after Rihanna's 2023 performance.
Responses and Backlash
Critics quickly pushed back against Fine's demand. Actor Ben Stiller mocked the congressman on X, suggesting the FCC investigate Bad Bunny's "huge talent" and "off the charts charisma" instead. Stiller's post highlighted the performance's themes of inclusion and love.
Jennifer Jenkins, Fine's Democratic challenger in the 2026 congressional race, sent her own letter to Carr. She questioned Fine's accuracy, noting that cited lyrics were not sung and pointing out his use of quotation marks around "Bad Bunny." Jenkins also criticized Fine's social media practices, where he blocks constituents and journalists.
Bad Bunny urged detractors to learn Spanish in response to the backlash. Supporters praised the show for its cultural representation and high production value.
The FCC's scrutiny, prompted by the complaints, concluded with no findings of rule violations, as lyrics were appropriately censored. No additional probes are expected absent new evidence.
Why the Demand Matters
Fine's push reflects broader tensions over broadcast content, language barriers, and cultural sensitivity in major events like the Super Bowl halftime show. It underscores Republican concerns about indecency on public airwaves, especially during family-oriented programming.
The controversy also highlights political divides, with some viewing the performance as a celebration of Latino culture amid growing Hispanic influence in U.S. entertainment and politics. Critics argue the complaints exaggerate censored content to score political points.
In Florida's 6th District, the issue has emerged early in the congressional race, with Jenkins using it to contrast her approach.
Fine's Broader Controversies Fuel Scrutiny
The Bad Bunny demand has amplified scrutiny of Fine's record. In January 2026, he introduced the Greenland Annexation and Statehood Act, authorizing the president to acquire Greenland for national security reasons and pave the way for it to become the 51st state. The bill cites threats from China and Russia in the Arctic.
In December 2025, during a congressional hearing, Fine stated that "mainstream Muslims" should be "destroyed" for seeking destruction, embracing the label of Islamophobic. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) designated him an "anti-Muslim extremist," citing a pattern of inflammatory rhetoric, including calls to nuke Gaza and dehumanizing comments about Palestinians.
Fine has a history of anti-Muslim statements, such as advocating a "Muslim travel ban" and "radical deportations." These remarks have drawn condemnation from civil rights groups and some Jewish organizations, despite Fine's pro-Israel stance.
What Happens Next
With the FCC closing its review, no penalties are anticipated for Bad Bunny, the NFL, or NBC. Congressional inquiries, if pursued, could extend the debate but lack bipartisan support.
The incident may influence future halftime selections, emphasizing pre-broadcast reviews for global audiences. In politics, it could shape Fine's reelection bid against Jenkins, amid ongoing discussions of his Greenland bill and past statements.
As cultural events like the Super Bowl evolve, balancing artistic freedom with broadcast regulations remains a key challenge.
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