AceShowbiz - Puerto Rican reggaeton singer Nicky Jam has retracted his endorsement of Donald Trump for the 2024 presidential election. The move comes after a month-long association between the two sparked controversy.

The catalyst for Jam's reversal was a joke made by comedian Tony Hinchcliffe at a Trump rally in New York. Hinchcliffe referred to Puerto Rico as "garbage," offending Jam and many Puerto Rican celebrities.

In a video statement posted on Instagram, Jam explained his initial support for Trump stemmed from his belief that a businessman would be best for the U.S. economy, where many Latinos live. However, after Hinchcliffe's "disrespectful" comments, Jam said he felt compelled to renounce his support.

"Puerto Rico deserves respect," Jam said. "I'm stepping away from any political situation."

Jam's decision follows a wave of outrage among Puerto Rican celebrities over Hinchcliffe's remarks. Grammy Award winner Bad Bunny endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris shortly after, while actress Aubrey Plaza condemned the joke at a recent award ceremony.

Jam's previous appearance at a Trump rally drew attention after Trump introduced him as a "hot" woman. The Mexican pop-rock band Mana has since removed its 2016 collaboration with Jam from online platforms in solidarity with Puerto Rico.

Despite being U.S. citizens, Puerto Ricans cannot vote in general elections. However, their influence on mainland relatives remains potent. Bad Bunny's support for Harris is seen as a way of harnessing this power.

Jam's withdrawal from Trump's camp highlights the divide between the former president and the Puerto Rican community, particularly over issues of respect and cultural sensitivity.