The video included a line from the song — “Have you ever tried this one? Bye-bye” — paired with emojis, making the post appear more like a casual meme than a serious government announcement. Many online users quickly pointed out the unusual tone of the message, given the sensitive nature of immigration raids.

Carpenter responded publicly soon after the post went viral. In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), she condemned the administration’s decision, calling the video “evil and disgusting.” She stated that she never approved her music being used to support what she described as an “inhumane” political agenda. The singer added that the government should not involve her art in messaging she fundamentally disagrees with.

The White House pushed back against her criticism. A spokesperson defended the video, saying the administration would not apologize for deporting individuals it described as “dangerous criminal illegal migrants.” The statement accused critics of the enforcement operation of ignoring serious public-safety concerns.

The episode has reignited a long-running debate over the use of artists’ work in political and government messaging. Musicians have frequently objected to their songs being played at campaign rallies or in official videos without their consent. Carpenter’s response adds to the growing list of artists insisting that their music not be tied to political agendas.

For now, the original video remains online, but the backlash has drawn widespread attention to the administration’s communication style — and to the ongoing clash between public figures and political institutions over the use of creative content.