The CEO of a prominent conservative nonprofit organization faced public criticism this weekend for not attending a politically-themed halftime show that was promoted as an alternative to the Super Bowl’s main entertainment.
The event, which featured musical performances aligned with certain political viewpoints, was streamed online. Observers noted the notable absence of the organization’s leader, a widow who assumed her role following the death of the group’s founder last year.
Online commentary quickly highlighted her non-attendance. One social media user suggested the show’s quality was so poor that even the CEO skipped it, while others made light of her absence with various jokes and speculations.
Despite not being physically present, the CEO later posted on social media, praising the production as “incredible” and dedicating the sentiment to her late husband. She expressed that the event’s themes of faith and patriotism were central to the organization’s mission.
Controversy also arose around the event’s reported viewership. A separate political commentator publicly accused the organizing group of misrepresenting its audience numbers, alleging the figures were artificially inflated through paid promotions—a claim the organization has not publicly addressed.
This commentator, a former employee of the nonprofit, has been a consistent critic of the current CEO’s public conduct and management decisions since she took over leadership several months ago. The CEO’s tenure has been marked by significant staff changes and frequent public appearances that have drawn mixed reactions.