Olivia Rodrigo Outraged Over Music Use in Deportation Video

Grammy Award winner Olivia Rodrigo expressed her outrage upon discovering that federal immigration authorities were using her music in a video promoting the deportation of undocumented immigrants. In a conversation with Dazed Magazine, she shared her reaction to the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) actions and how she learned of the situation.

“I was just scrolling through my phone and I saw that propaganda,” Rodrigo recalled. “Seeing my song attached to it made me even more angry.” This incident stems from a video shared in November 2025, encouraging illegal immigrants to voluntarily deport themselves. The video featured her song “All-american b—-” from her 2023 album GUTS as background audio.

The video suggested that individuals could use the CBP Home app for self-deportation or face consequences, showcasing officers arresting immigrants. Rodrigo quickly took to Instagram, voicing her frustration and stating, “Please never use my songs to promote racist and hateful propaganda.” Following the backlash, her song has been removed from the video.

In a recent interview, Rodrigo reiterated her criticism of ICE, calling its methods “barbaric.” She expressed her disappointment with the current state of affairs in the country, saying, “What they’re doing is so horrific, barbaric and cruel. It’s really sad that we’re in a country that thinks that’s okay.”

A spokesperson for the DHS responded to Rodrigo’s comments, emphasizing gratitude for federal law enforcement’s role in maintaining safety. The spokesperson suggested instead of denigrating their efforts, Rodrigo should appreciate their service.

Rodrigo, known for her outspoken nature on various issues including politics, mentioned that she sees sharing feelings as an artist’s duty. She acknowledged her own limitations in political knowledge but emphasized her intent to stay informed and voice her opinions.

Rodrigo is not the only artist to raise objections against the use of music in DHS posts. In December, Sabrina Carpenter spoke out against the Trump administration for using her song “Juno” in an ICE video. “Please never involve me or my music for your inhuman purposes,” Carpenter wrote on social media.

The White House press secretary later addressed Carpenter’s concerns, asserting that they would not apologize for deporting individuals with violent backgrounds. This ongoing tension between artists and governmental agencies highlights a significant cultural conflict over music’s role in politics and social issues.