Sabrina Carpenter Objects to White House Use of ‘Juno‘ in ICE Arrests TikTok
Singer Sabrina Carpenter has publicly objected to the White house’s use of her song “Juno” in a TikTok video showcasing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrests. “Don’t ever use my songs to promote your racist, hateful propaganda,” Carpenter wrote on social media.
The video, posted by the White House’s official TikTok account, featured footage of ICE agents conducting arrests alongside images of the military and a mugshot, set to Carpenter’s track.The use of the song has sparked criticism given Carpenter’s progressive political leanings and the controversial nature of ICE’s enforcement practices.This incident adds to a growing list of artists who have protested the unauthorized use of their music by political figures,raising questions about copyright,artistic control,and the intersection of music and politics.
This is not the first time a political campaign or figure has faced backlash for using music without an artist’s consent. Donald Trump, during his presidential campaigns and time in office, repeatedly drew criticism from musicians who objected to their songs being used at his rallies and in campaign materials.Artists ranging from celine Dion to the estate of Isaac Hayes have taken steps to prevent Trump from using their work, including issuing cease-and-desist letters.
Taylor Swift has also been vocal about her opposition to Trump, endorsing Joe Biden in 2020 and Kamala Harris in 2024. The White House previously set Swift’s song “The Fate of Ophelia” to a slideshow featuring Trump,prompting a similar outcry. Representatives for Swift did not respond to a request for comment at the time.
The unauthorized use of copyrighted music by political entities highlights the ongoing tension between artistic expression and political messaging. While campaigns often seek to leverage the popularity of music to connect with voters, artists are increasingly asserting their right to control how their work is used and associated with political ideologies.
