Pop Star and Children’s Publisher Denounce Use of Music and Imagery by Trump Administration
Pop singer Sabrina Carpenter and Kids Can Press, the publisher of Franklin the Turtle, have both publicly rejected the Trump administration’s appropriation of their music and imagery for political messaging. This pushback comes against the backdrop of controversial actions related to immigration enforcement and military operations.
The fallout highlights the increasing tensions between artists and political entities over the use of creative works in ways that contradict their values, representing a broader struggle over artistic integrity and political agendas.
Key Developments
- Sabrina Carpenter criticized the Trump administration’s use of her song “Juno” in a video about ICE raids, labeling the video as “evil and disgusting.”
- The White House quoted Carpenter’s lyrics in their video promotion, leading to her firm disavowal of the association.
- Kids Can Press condemned a post by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, which featured a manipulated image of Franklin the Turtle and criticized its violent implications.
- The Trump administration has conducted military actions targeting drug trafficking in specific regions, resulting in casualties.
- This incident adds to a growing list of artists who have objected to the administration’s use of their works, including notable figures such as Bruce Springsteen and Rihanna.
Full Report
Artists Speak Out
Sabrina Carpenter took to social media Tuesday to express her outrage after discovering that her song “Juno” had been used in a video montage promoting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids. The singer described the video as “evil and disgusting,” firmly stating, “Do not ever involve me or my music to benefit your inhumane agenda.” The White House had quoted Carpenter’s lyrics, “Have you ever tried this one? Bye-bye,” in an attempt to frame the narrative surrounding the video.
Franklin the Turtle Publisher Reacts
Similarly, Kids Can Press expressed strong disapproval of a recent social media post made by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The post contained a digitally altered image of Franklin the Turtle wielding a bazooka and referenced targeting “narco terrorists.” In response, the publisher issued a statement through Twitter, denouncing any violent or unauthorized use of Franklin’s likeness, arguing that such portrayals are inconsistent with the character’s values of kindness and friendship.
Political Context
The Trump administration has undertaken multiple military operations in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean aimed at disrupting drug trafficking routes. Reports indicate that over 80 individuals have lost their lives in these operations since early September, raising ethical concerns about the methods employed in combating drug-related activities.
Context & Previous Events
Numerous artists and performers have previously objected to the use of their creative works by the Trump administration, including high-profile names such as ABBA, Bruce Springsteen, Rihanna, and more. This trend reflects a broader concern within the entertainment industry regarding the alignment of artistic expression with political messaging, especially when such use contradicts the artists’ principles.
