Nicky Jam Withdraws Support for Donald Trump After 'Island of Garbage' Line at Rally

In Spanish

Urbano artist Nicky Jam, one of the first prominent Latino figures to publicly support former President and current Republican candidate Donald Trump, has now withdrawn his endorsement after controversial remarks made about Puerto Rico. The backlash arose after comedian Tony Hinchcliffe referred to Puerto Rico as a "floating island of garbage" during a Trump rally at Madison Square Garden on Sunday.

Hinchcliffe's remark sparked widespread outrage across the political spectrum and among high-profile Puerto Rican figures. Many artists, including Bad Bunny and Ricky Martin, came out to condemn the line and voice their support for Kamala Harris.

Nicky Jam's support for Trump

The Puerto Rican artist took heat for supporting Trump, even joining him on stage at a rally in Las Vegas. The Republican candidate mistakenly thought Nicky Jam was a female, saying "She's hot" before introducing him on stage. We need [Trump] to be the president," he said at the lectern. He then transitioned to Spanish, saying, "Four years have passed, and nothing has happened. We need Trump!"

The statement ignited strong reactions, including from the Mexican band Maná, which canceled a collaboration with Nicky Jam: "We don't work with racists," said the band when explaining its decision.

The latest incident seems to have been enough for Nicky Jam to change his stance. The singer, who has Puerto Rican and Dominican roots, addressed his 43.5 million followers on Instagram, announcing he was withdrawing his support for Trump and distancing himself from all political affiliations.

"My people, I'm not usually one to respond to things on social media, but I supported Trump because I thought it would benefit the U.S. economy, where many Latinos, including myself, live and struggle. I believed, as a businessman, he could help. I never imagined that a month later, a comedian would insult my country. So, I renounce any support for Donald Trump and step away from politics. Puerto Rico deserves respect!"