DHS faces Backlash Over Unauthorized Use of Comedian’s Clip in Deportation Video
the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) removed a video posted Tuesday on X, after comedian Theo Von objected to its use of his material without permission. The 31-second video featured a clip of Von saying, “Heard you got deported, dude – bye,” followed by claims of two million deportations during President Trump’s second term, and imagery intended to deter illegal immigration. Von publicly demanded the video’s removal and financial compensation, highlighting the nuanced nature of his views on immigration.
This incident marks the latest instance of the White House utilizing popular culture without authorization to promote its immigration policies, raising questions about copyright, ethical considerations, and the potential for misrepresenting artists’ viewpoints. It follows a similar controversy in July when British singer Jess Glynne expressed dismay over the use of her song, “Hold My Hand,” from a Jet2holiday advert, in a White House video depicting deportations.
Von took to X, stating, “Yooo DHS i didnt approve to be used in this,” and further requested, “send a check” and that they “keep me out of your ‘banger’ deportation videos.” He clarified, “When it comes to immigration my thoughts and heart are a lot more nuanced than this video allows. Bye!”
The DHS video presented the Von clip before asserting two million “illegal immigrants” had been deported within the first 250 days of President Trump’s second term. it concluded with footage of a departing plane overlaid with the message, “Leave now,” and a previous statement from Trump claiming reduced illegal immigration. The post is no longer available on the platform.
