Tensions between Sabrina Carpenter and The White House have escalated as a second promotional ICE video featuring her likeness was released, following her criticism of a previous video that used her music without permission.
The initial video, which surfaced earlier this week, included the singer’s popular song “Juno” and depicted ICE officers apprehending individuals in Chicago. The video was criticized for cutting to the lyrics ‘have you ever tried this one?’ during the detainment scenes.
Sabrina Carpenter took to social media to express her outrage, posting on X: “This video is evil and disgusting. Do not ever involve me or my music to benefit your inhumane agenda.” Her statement quickly gained public support.
In response, The White House released a statement targeting Carpenter, suggesting that those who support migrants are either ‘stupid’ or ‘slow,’ while continuing to reference her music.
The statement read: “Here’s a Short n’ Sweet message for Sabrina Carpenter: we won’t apologize for deporting dangerous criminal illegal murderers, rapists, and pedophiles from our country.
“Anyone who would defend these sick monsters must be stupid, or is it slow?”
By Friday, the initial video was removed, only to be replaced by another video aimed at Carpenter. This new release featured altered footage from her appearance on Saturday Night Live, where her joke about arresting someone for being ‘too hot’ was changed to ‘illegal.’
The video then transitioned to scenes of ICE operations, with the caption: “PSA: If you’re a criminal illegal, you WILL be arrested & deported. ✨”
The original joke referenced her Short n’ Sweet Tour, where she humorously ‘arrested’ a fan each night during a performance of “Juno,” but the modified footage conveyed a more ominous message. Fans have since urged Carpenter to consider legal action against The White House.
Since the debut of the first video, fans have called for Carpenter to address copyright infringement, with one user suggesting a ‘copyright strike,’ receiving significant support.
After the second video, similar frustrations were voiced, with many expressing disappointment over the government resorting to such tactics.
“How positively daring. You went right ahead and involved the artist who specifically requested not to be involved. Such rule-breaking! You must be thrilled with your own radical naughtiness,” one user remarked sarcastically.
Another user expressed disapproval, writing; “The Presidency used to have a feeling of respect, dignity, and honor. This administration acts no better than a Call of Duty lobby in 2007.”