Pop Star Sabrina Carpenter Criticizes White House Over Campaign Video Use of Her Song
WASHINGTON D.C. – Singer Sabrina Carpenter publicly condemned the use of her hit song “Espresso” in a campaign video posted by the White House, alleging the Biden campaign utilized the track without her consent. The 26-year-old artist, currently one of the most popular musicians in the United States following the 2024 success of ”Espresso” – lauded by rolling Stone and Billboard - voiced her disapproval via social media.
The incident highlights a growing trend of political campaigns leveraging popular music too connect with voters,frequently enough sparking debate over artist consent and the potential for unwanted political association. carpenter’s rebuke follows similar recent criticism directed at Defense Minister hegseth, who faced backlash for a controversial social media post featuring a modified image of the children’s character Franklin wielding a bazooka.This latest dispute underscores the sensitivity surrounding the intersection of pop culture and political messaging, particularly in a contentious election year.
the White House campaign reportedly used a portion of “Espresso” in a video intended to contrast President Biden’s policies with those of former President Trump. Carpenter’s response indicates she did not authorize the use of her music for political purposes. She is known to be amiable with Taylor Swift, who has previously clashed publicly with Trump.
The controversy surrounding Hegseth involved a post referencing disputed U.S.attacks on Venezuelan boats, which the Trump administration claimed were involved in drug trafficking-a claim for which no evidence has been presented. Kids Can Press, the publisher of the Franklin book series, later released a statement condemning Hegseth’s use of the character’s image in a violent context, emphasizing its incompatibility with the series’ values.
The carpenter situation raises questions about campaign vetting processes and the legal ramifications of using copyrighted material without permission. It also adds to a broader narrative of escalating tensions between artists and political figures, particularly as campaigns increasingly rely on cultural touchstones to engage voters. Further developments are expected as Carpenter considers potential legal options and the Biden campaign responds to the criticism.
