The 68th Grammy Awards proved that music’s biggest night was also one of its most outspoken. From biting jokes about Donald Trump to emotional speeches on immigration and visible “ICE OUT” statements on the red carpet, the ceremony doubled as a platform for political resistance. Here are the top 10 political moments from the Grammys 2026.
Trevor Noah’s ‘term limits’ joke takes a swipe at Donald Trump
In his sixth and final year as host, Trevor Noah opened the show with a pointed joke, “I loved my time, but I believe in term limits. I wanted to set an example for anyone who might be watching the show, you know. Leave when the time is up.”
The remark was widely read as a dig at President Donald Trump and immediately set the tone for the night.
Noah jokes Trump would sue CBS for editing the show
Later, Trevor Noah pushed the envelope even further, as he said, “Welcome back to the Grammy Awards, coming to you live. And I mean completely live, because if we edited any of this show, the president would sue CBS for $16 billion.”
The line referenced Trump’s past settlement with CBS parent company Paramount.
Also Read: Complete list of Grammy 2026 winners
Bad Bunny and Trevor Noah’s Puerto Rico exchange
Sitting beside Bad Bunny, Noah joked, “If things get worse in America, can I come live with you in Puerto Rico?”
Bad Bunny shot back, “Trevor, I have news for you: Puerto Rico is part of America.”
To which Noah replied, “Don’t tell them.”
Olivia Dean’s immigrant tribute during Best New Artist speech
Accepting the Best New Artist award, Olivia Dean highlighted her family’s immigrant roots, “I’m up here as a granddaughter of an immigrant. I wouldn’t be here — I’m a product of bravery, and I think those people deserve to be celebrated ... we’re nothing without each other.”
Shaboozey thanking his immigrant mother
First-time Grammy winner Shaboozey delivered one of the most emotional speeches of the night. He said, “I want to thank my mother, who as of today, has retired from her job of 30 years ... working as a registered nurse in a psych ward ... as an immigrant in this country. Thank you, mom.” He added, “Immigrants built this country, literally, actually. So, this for them. Thank you for bring your culture, your music and your stories.”
Kehlani wins big and says ‘F— ICE’
After winning her first Grammy for R&B Performance and a second for R&B Song, Kehlani reflected, “I've never won anything before, this is a really crazy feeling.” Before ending with a blunt political statement, “Imma leave this and say, (expletive) ICE.”
Amy Allen, Kehlani and others rock ‘ICE OUT’ pins
Songwriter of the Year winner Amy Allen wore an “ICE OUT” pin throughout the night. Kehlani echoed the message, while Justin and Hailey Bieber also joined the movement on the red carpet—both wearing white pins reading “ICE OUT” with their black ensembles.
Gloria Estefan admits she’s ‘scared’ of the current climate
Backstage, Gloria Estefan voiced deep concern over immigration policies, “I'm scared. There are hundreds of children in detention centers. ... I don't recognize my country in this moment right now.”
Bad Bunny’s powerful anti-ICE acceptance speech
Bad Bunny delivered one of the night’s most direct political messages. “Before I say thanks to God, I’m going to say ICE out. We’re not savage, we’re not animals, we’re not aliens. We are humans and we are Americans.” He continued, “The hate gets more powerful with more hate. The only thing that is more powerful than hate is love. We don’t hate them. We love our people. We love our family, and that’s the way to do it. With love.”
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
Find the best of Al News in one place, specially curated for you every weekend.
Stay on top of the latest tech trends and biggest startup news.
