Grammy-winning pop star Olivia Rodrigo expressed outrage after discovering federal immigration authorities used her music in a video encouraging undocumented immigrants to leave the United States. The singer described the experience as deeply disturbing and called the agency’s operations barbaric during a recent magazine interview. The controversy erupted in November 2025 when the Department of Homeland Security posted content featuring her song without authorization.
The 22-year-old artist was scrolling through social media when she encountered the propaganda video. Immigration and Customs Enforcement had selected “All-American b—-” from her 2023 album “GUTS” as background music for their deportation campaign. The post encouraged self-deportation through a mobile application and showed footage of agents arresting individuals.
Singer discovers unauthorized use while browsing social media
Rodrigo stated she felt enraged upon seeing her song attached to what she characterized as propaganda. The video caption instructed viewers to leave immediately using the CBP Home app or face consequences. Immigration enforcement officials appeared in the footage conducting operations against undocumented residents. The former Disney Channel actress immediately took to Instagram to condemn the unauthorized use of her intellectual property.
The artist wrote on her social media platform that authorities should never use her songs to promote racist and hateful propaganda. Her direct response sparked widespread attention from fans and fellow musicians. The audio was subsequently removed from the government post, which now displays a notice that the sound is no longer available. Despite the removal, Rodrigo continued voicing her criticism in subsequent interviews.
Artist describes immigration enforcement operations as cruel
During her conversation with the publication, Rodrigo doubled down on her assessment of immigration enforcement activities. She characterized the work as awful, barbaric and cruel. The singer expressed sadness about living in a country that accepts such practices. Her comments reflect broader concerns among entertainment industry figures regarding current immigration policies.
- Rodrigo discovered the video while scrolling on her phone in November 2025
- Department of Homeland Security posted the content with her song
- The artist immediately condemned the use on Instagram
- Audio was removed after her public complaint
- She called enforcement operations barbaric in follow-up interview
The controversy highlights tensions between creative artists and government agencies over intellectual property rights and political messaging. Rodrigo has been vocal about various social issues throughout her career. She regularly addresses topics including reproductive rights and international conflicts through her platform.
Government spokesperson responds to criticism from performer
A Department of Homeland Security representative issued a statement addressing the singer’s complaints. The spokesperson referenced lyrics from Rodrigo’s own music in their response. They suggested the artist should thank federal law enforcement officers for their service rather than belittle their sacrifice. The statement emphasized that America remains grateful for officers who maintain public safety.
Rodrigo defended her right to speak on political matters despite lacking formal credentials in political science. She acknowledged not being the most educated person on the planet but emphasized staying informed on current events. The artist views sharing personal feelings with the public as an essential component of her role. She believes artists have a responsibility to communicate their perspectives to audiences.
Multiple musicians object to unauthorized music use in enforcement videos
Rodrigo is not alone among recording artists who have protested government use of their creative work. Singer Sabrina Carpenter publicly criticized the Trump administration in December after discovering her song “Juno” in an ICE operation video. Carpenter posted on social media demanding authorities never involve her music to benefit what she called an inhumane agenda. The video showed apparent enforcement raids with her track playing over the footage.
A White House representative responded to Carpenter with a statement referencing her song titles. The spokesperson declared the administration would not apologize for deporting individuals they described as dangerous criminals. The response highlighted ongoing friction between entertainment personalities and government officials over immigration enforcement tactics. These incidents reflect broader cultural debates about artistic expression and political messaging in 2026.
