With a $3 million ad buy, GOP governor candidate Perry Johnson is urging Michigan fans to skip the Super Bowl halftime show. Johnson, an Oakland County entrepreneur and Republican donor, is making his message heard through a series of ads, including two new television spots and a purchase in the Super Bowl pre-game broadcast. The main ad, titled 'Super Bowl Bunny', encourages viewers to change the channel during the halftime show, which features Puerto Rican musician Bad Bunny. Instead, Johnson promotes the 'All American Halftime Show', sponsored by Turning Point USA, a grassroots political action network. The ad also highlights Johnson's conservative stance, showing him shaking hands with Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk. The narrator humorously refers to Bad Bunny as 'Dust Bunny', suggesting the NFL's choice is not to be taken seriously. The alternative halftime show, featuring Detroit musician Kid Rock, country stars Brantley Gilbert and Lee Brice, and former 'American Idol' contestant Gabby Barrett, will air on TPUSA's social media channels on February 8th. Bad Bunny, known for his success on music charts and dubbed the 'King of Latin Trap', has faced criticism for perceived slights against the Trump administration and his stance on immigration. Johnson's campaign aims to 'turn the channel' on Bad Bunny, emphasizing the importance of family and country during Super Bowl Sunday. The ad will initially air in Detroit on NBC at 6 p.m. tomorrow and will also run statewide on Fox News starting the same day. This $3 million ad buy, spanning until February 23rd, includes television, radio, and online advertising. Additionally, a second ad, titled '4747', will promote Johnson's plan to eliminate the state income tax, returning $4,747 to Michigan families. Johnson, a former presidential candidate, is running for governor again, joining a crowded Republican primary with seven candidates. His previous campaigns have been marked by controversy, including a disqualification from the 2022 governor's race due to a fraud scandal. Despite these challenges, Johnson remains a strong contender, promising to spend $9 million over the next 60 days.
