White House Features Sabrina Carpenter’s ‘SNL’ Clip in ICE Deportation Video

The White House recently featured a clip of Sabrina Carpenter in a video aimed at promoting the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency. This has led to significant backlash from the singer, who criticized the administration’s use of her music.

Sabrina Carpenter’s Reaction

Carpenter, known for her song “Juno,” expressed disapproval on social media after the White House utilized her music in a video. She labeled the promotion as “evil and disgusting,” stating, “Do not ever involve me or my music to benefit your inhumane agenda.”

Manipulated Video Clip

The video, posted on December 5, manipulates a comedic segment from Carpenter’s recent Saturday Night Live appearance. In this segment, Carpenter appears alongside cast member Marcello Hernández. The audio was altered, changing the context of their humorous exchange.

• Original line: “I think I might need to arrest someone for being too hot.”
• Altered to imply she called Hernández “illegal.”

This manipulation was followed by footage of law enforcement pursuing and arresting individuals, further distorting Carpenter’s original intent in the SNL skit.

ICE and Deportation Campaign

This video is part of Trump’s broader strategy to implement what he describes as the “largest deportation program” in U.S. history. It carries a message that targets undocumented immigrants, stating: “PSA: If you’re a criminal illegal, you WILL be arrested & deported.”

Response from the Trump Administration

Following Carpenter’s objection, White House press secretary Abigail Jackson issued a robust defense. She emphasized the administration’s commitment to deporting what they termed “dangerous criminal illegal murderers, rapists, and pedophiles.” However, the controversial video was later removed from X, without any official explanation from the White House, while remaining available on TikTok.

Musicians Standing Against ICE

Carpenter is not alone in her condemnation of ICE. Several artists have voiced similar concerns. Olivia Rodrigo participated in anti-ICE protests, expressing distress over violent deportations. She criticized the use of her music in pro-deportation efforts, calling for respect of her artistic integrity.

• MGMT and The Cure also had their music used in ICE videos, which were subsequently removed.
• Addison Rae shared her disappointment over Trump’s immigration policy.
• Shakira discussed her fears as an immigrant in the U.S., while Bad Bunny canceled U.S. tour dates due to concerns about ICE activities.

The ongoing debate highlights the tensions surrounding immigration policies and the role of artists in activism.

Carpenter’s Musical Recognition

Despite the controversy, Sabrina Carpenter continues to achieve critical acclaim. Her song “House Tour” was recognized in NME’s list of the 50 Best Songs of 2025, praised for its catchy melody and clever lyrics.