AOC Challenges Jake Paul Over Controversial Comments Regarding Bad Bunny’s Citizenship
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has delivered a sharp rebuttal to Jake Paul after the social media personality questioned Bad Bunny’s status as a United States citizen. The friction began following Paul’s public dismissal of the Puerto Rican superstar’s Super Bowl Halftime performance on February 8.
The morning after the championship game, the New York Congresswoman took to X to address Paul’s inflammatory remarks. Paul had previously stated he was intentionally skipping the halftime show, labeling the artist known as Benito a “fake American citizen” who allegedly harbors anti-American sentiments. Ocasio-Cortez responded directly to his post, highlighting the absurdity of his claim with a simple prompt: “A ‘fake American citizen?’”
The representative for the Bronx didn’t stop at citizenship technicalities. She pointed out the irony of Paul’s own living situation, noting that he relocated to Puerto Rico to take advantage of tax incentives while many American families struggle. “Meanwhile, Benito actually funds low-income kids’ access to arts and sports programs, while you defund them,” she added, before concluding that Paul’s frustration likely stems from the fact that Bad Bunny “makes you look small.”
Paul’s comments were part of a broader wave of conservative criticism regarding the choice of Bad Bunny for the prestigious halftime slot. High-profile figures, including Donald Trump, described the performance as a slight to the nation, while some organizations went so far as to produce a rival “All-American” musical event. These critics often lean into a narrative that suggests the Grammy winner is not truly American, despite Puerto Rico’s status as a U.S. territory, which makes its residents U.S. citizens by birth.
Following a wave of condemnation—which reportedly included pushback from his brother, Logan Paul—Jake Paul attempted to walk back his statements. He clarified on Monday morning that he wasn’t attacking Puerto Ricans in general, claiming he “loves” the island where he currently resides. Instead, he argued that his issue lay with those who criticize ICE or express dissatisfaction with the country. Shortly thereafter, he posted a confusing retraction, claiming he was unsure how the previous night’s posts had appeared on his account.
Despite the “un-American” narrative pushed by critics, Bad Bunny’s performance featured a message of inclusion. Alongside guests Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin, the set concluded with the singer holding a football emblazoned with the words, “Together we are America.”
While the artist has been vocal about his concerns regarding ICE and the treatment of immigrants, he has framed his stance as a call for humanity rather than hatred. During a recent awards acceptance speech, he emphasized this point, stating, “We are not savages, we are not animals… We are humans, and we are Americans,” adding that love is the only force capable of overcoming division.
