Nicky Jam Withdraws Trump Endorsement After Comic’s Offensive Puerto Rico Remarks
Puerto Rican reggaeton superstar Nicky Jam has withdrawn his endorsement of Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election, citing offensive remarks made by comedian Tony Hinchcliffe at a Trump rally.
Jam, known for hits like “Travesuras,” “Voy a Beber,” and the J Balvin collaboration “X,” publicly supported Trump last month at a rally in Las Vegas. However, he reversed his stance after Hinchcliffe’s derogatory characterization of Puerto Rico during the same rally.
“The reason why I supported Donald Trump was because I thought he was the best for the economy in the United States, where many Latinos live, many of us Latinos live, myself included, many immigrants who are suffering because of the economy and him, being a businessman, I thought it was the best move,” Jam said in a Spanish-language video statement posted to his official Instagram page.
“Never in my life did I think that a month later a comedian was going to come to criticize my country and speak badly of my country and therefore, I renounce any support for Donald Trump, and I sidestep any political situation. Respect Puerto Rico, Nicky Jam.”
Hinchcliffe’s comments triggered widespread condemnation, particularly within the Latinx community. Puerto Rican music icon Bad Bunny, known as “El Conejo Malo,” responded by throwing his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris. He shared a powerful video on his Instagram detailing Puerto Rico’s contributions to American culture, emphasizing the island’s resilience and strength.
“We have been fighting since day one of our existence, we are the definition of heart and resistance,” he wrote in Spanish. “Here we stand, here we are, and for those who forget who we are… don’t worry, we proudly remind you.”
The fallout from Hinchcliffe’s remarks extends beyond the music industry. Actress Aubrey Plaza spoke out against the comedian’s offensive language during a speech at the WSJ Magazine Innovator Awards.
“I just wanted to very quickly respond to the racist joke that was made at that Trump rally about Puerto Rico, where most of my family is from,” Plaza said. “Thankfully, my sweet abuelita wasn’t here to hear that disgusting remark.”
Even Mexican pop-rock band Maná cut ties with Jam, removing their 2016 song collaboration, “De pies a cabeza,” from online platforms. “Maná does not work with racists,” they stated on Instagram.
A Call for Respect and Understanding
The events surrounding Nicky Jam’s withdrawal from Trump’s endorsement highlight the power of words and the importance of respecting diverse cultures and backgrounds. While political endorsements are a matter of personal choice, it’s crucial to engage in respectful dialogue and recognize the impact of hateful rhetoric on communities.
Follow this blog for more updates on Latino culture, politics, and entertainment.