WASHINGTON D.C February 8, 2026 — United States Secretary of War Pete Hegseth shared a pre-recorded video message saluting Turning Point USA (TPUSA) and its “All-American Halftime Show,” a conservative alternative event streamed live during Super Bowl LX halftime.
Hegseth appeared in a formal setting resembling the Oval Office, flanked by American flags and the presidential seal, holding a football as he addressed viewers directly.
“From the War Department, we salute Turning Point USA and every American who still believes freedom is worth defending. Thank you for your courage as an organization, your clarity, and your leadership,” Hegseth stated. “And for this halftime show that the War Department is proud to support.”
He continued by marking the nation’s 250th anniversary of independence in 2026: “This year we mark 250 years since a band of citizens pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor… Freedom is not automatic. It’s defended by a strong nation and ready force.”
Hegseth closed with gratitude to U.S. troops, veterans, and their families: “To our troops, our veterans, and the families who serve alongside them—we see you, we thank you, and we’ve got your back… God bless our warriors and God bless our great Republic.”
The TPUSA event featured performances by Kid Rock, Brantley Gilbert, Lee Brice, and Gabby Barrett, emphasizing themes of faith, family, and freedom. The YouTube livestream attracted millions of viewers, with reports indicating over 6 million tuned in.
The alternative show served as counter-programming to the official Super Bowl LX halftime performance headlined by Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny, who made history as the first solo Latino headliner.
Hegseth’s message, posted to his official X account @SecWar, quickly gained traction, garnering tens of thousands of likes and hundreds of thousands of views within hours.
The “All-American Halftime Show” highlighted ongoing cultural divides in entertainment, with TPUSA positioning the event as a celebration of traditional American values during one of the nation’s biggest sporting events.
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