Sabrina Carpenter criticizes Trump administration for using her music in controversial ICE video.

Sabrina Carpenter has publicly condemned the Trump administration’s use of her song “Juno” in a video released by the White House. The video, which surfaced on the White House’s social media accounts, depicts ICE agents arresting protesters and undocumented immigrants while set to Carpenter’s track. The post was accompanied by the phrase, “Have you ever tried this one?” along with a heart-eye emoji.

The controversy surrounding the video intensified on Tuesday when Carpenter, a native of Bucks County, voiced her disapproval via a social media response, describing the video as “evil and disgusting.” She further emphasized, “Do not ever involve me or my music to benefit your inhumane agenda.” This statement resonated widely, drawing over 2 million views, reflecting the artist’s strong stance against the administration’s messaging.

Carpenter’s opposition is part of a broader trend among artists who object to the unauthorized use of their music in political contexts. Similar incidents have previously involved high-profile artists such as Beyoncé and the Rolling Stones, who have also raised objections against the administration’s use of their songs to promote its agenda.

In an earlier instance, fellow artist Olivia Rodrigo voiced her concerns when the White House featured her track “All-American Bitch” in a video advocating for the self-deportation of undocumented immigrants. Rodrigo, of Filipino American heritage, publicly denounced the usage, labeling the administration’s message as “racist and hateful.”

The White House’s choice to use Carpenter’s song also follows a similar occurrence involving Taylor Swift. Last month, a song by Swift was used in a video celebrating President Trump’s administration, triggering backlash among Swift’s fan base. Although Swift did not comment on this instance, she has previously criticized Trump over other matters, specifically regarding the use of AI-generated images related to her.

Apart from her music career, Carpenter is known for her activism. At 26, she collaborated with HeadCount during her Short n’ Sweet tour and successfully registered 35,814 voters, making her the top artist involved with the nonpartisan organization in the 2024 election cycle. Furthermore, she has been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has made charitable donations to the National Immigration Law Center.

Despite the controversy, representatives for both Carpenter and the Department of Homeland Security have not provided comments regarding the incident. As the debate over the appropriation of music in political contexts continues, Carpenter’s firm response exemplifies the increasing pushback artists are willing to make against the alignment of their work with contentious political narratives.