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Pop star Olivia Rodrigo has publicly condemned the Department of Homeland Security after the agency incorporated her music into a controversial social media video promoting self-deportation for undocumented immigrants.
The video, posted on Instagram on November 4, 2025, as a joint initiative between DHS and the White House, featured Rodrigo’s song “All-American Bitch” from her Grammy-nominated album “Guts.” The clip showed Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers detaining undocumented immigrants during the song’s aggressive opening section before transitioning to footage of people voluntarily boarding deportation flights as the track’s calmer interlude played in the background.
“LEAVE NOW and self-deport using the CBP Home app. If you don’t, you will face the consequences,” read the caption accompanying the post.
Rodrigo responded directly in the comments section with an unambiguous rebuke: “Don’t ever use my songs to promote your racist, hateful propaganda.” The comment was subsequently deleted, though it remains unclear whether Rodrigo herself or DHS removed it from the platform.
When contacted by Rolling Stone magazine for comment, a DHS spokesperson offered a terse response: “America is grateful all the time for our federal law enforcement officers who keep us safe.” In a follow-up statement to TMZ, the agency suggested Rodrigo “thank them for their service, not belittle their sacrifice,” a pointed reference to lyrics from her own music.
The incident marks the latest chapter in Rodrigo’s increasingly vocal opposition to current immigration enforcement policies. The 22-year-old singer has previously used her platform to advocate for immigrant rights, particularly following ICE operations in her hometown.
In June, when ICE conducted widespread raids across Los Angeles, Rodrigo expressed her dismay on Instagram: “I’ve lived in L.A. my whole life and I’m deeply upset about these violent deportations of my neighbors under the current administration. L.A. simply wouldn’t exist without immigrants.”
She further emphasized her position at that time, writing: “Treating hardworking community members with such little respect, empathy, and due process is awful. I stand with the beautiful, diverse community of Los Angeles and with immigrants all across America.”
The unauthorized use of Rodrigo’s music raises significant questions about copyright infringement and the ethical considerations of government agencies using artists’ work for political messaging without consent. Copyright experts note that government use of copyrighted material without permission could potentially violate intellectual property laws, even when used in official communications.
Rodrigo is not alone in her objections. British singer Jess Glynne and Latin music superstar Bad Bunny have also publicly criticized the administration for similar unauthorized uses of their music in deportation-related content. These incidents highlight a growing tension between the entertainment industry and federal immigration enforcement agencies.
The controversy occurs amid an intensifying national debate over immigration policy. The administration has faced criticism from both sides of the political spectrum — from those arguing for more humane treatment of migrants to others demanding stricter enforcement of immigration laws.
Immigration advocates have condemned the tone and messaging of the DHS video, characterizing it as intimidation rather than information. Several civil rights organizations have questioned whether such tactics violate due process considerations and have called for greater oversight of how federal agencies communicate deportation policies.
For Rodrigo, whose rise to fame began in 2021 with her breakthrough hit “drivers license,” this public stance represents an evolution in her willingness to engage with contentious political issues. The multi-Grammy winner has increasingly used her influence to advocate for causes including reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ equality, and now immigrant rights.
The DHS has not indicated whether it plans to remove the video entirely or simply replace the soundtrack. Meanwhile, music industry representatives have begun discussions about clearer guidelines for government use of copyrighted musical works in official communications, particularly those related to controversial policy positions.
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7 Comments
This is a clear case of government overreach and disregard for artistic freedom. Rodrigo has every right to be outraged by the DHS’s unauthorized use of her music to promote such a harmful agenda. Her condemnation is justified.
This is a disappointing abuse of power and artistic rights. Rodrigo was right to forcefully condemn the DHS for co-opting her music in this way. Artists deserve to have a say in how their work is used, especially for political messaging.
The Department of Homeland Security’s actions here are highly problematic. Using an artist’s music without permission to promote policies that target vulnerable immigrant communities is deeply troubling. Rodrigo’s response was appropriate and justified.
I agree. The DHS response seems evasive and inadequate. They should be held accountable for this inappropriate and unethical use of Rodrigo’s intellectual property.
This is a concerning situation. Olivia Rodrigo is right to condemn the unauthorized use of her music for such a controversial and seemingly unethical purpose. Artists should have control over how their work is used, especially when it comes to political or propaganda efforts.
As a fan of Olivia Rodrigo’s music, I’m glad to see her standing up against this unauthorized and inappropriate use of her work. The DHS should respect artists’ intellectual property rights and avoid exploiting their art for propaganda purposes.
Agreed. Rodrigo’s response was principled and necessary. The DHS needs to be more accountable and transparent about their actions in this case.