The White House’s latest foray into social media has sparked a flurry of reactions across the internet. In a TikTok video released last week, the administration paired a clip of former President Donald Trump walking through a snowy landscape with footage of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents detaining individuals. The background music? A track from Drake’s 2026 album Iceman, specifically the song “Make Them Now.” The choice of music, the content of the video, and the platform on which it was shared have all drawn criticism from political commentators, music fans, and civil‑rights advocates alike.
Why the White House Turned to TikTok
For years, the White House has been cautious about its presence on social‑media platforms that cater to younger audiences. Yet in the past year, the administration has increased its TikTok activity, posting short clips that highlight policy initiatives, staff events, and even behind‑the‑scenes moments. The goal, according to White House spokespersons, is to “engage a new generation of voters” and to “present policy in a relatable, bite‑size format.” The platform’s algorithm rewards creative, attention‑grabbing content, which can amplify a message far beyond the reach of traditional outlets.
In the case of the “Iceman” clip, the White House’s team likely aimed to juxtapose Trump’s image of toughness with the agency’s enforcement actions. The snowy backdrop and the hard‑driving beat of Drake’s track were intended to convey a sense of urgency and strength. However, the decision to use a copyrighted song without explicit permission added a legal wrinkle to an already contentious narrative.
The Video’s Content and the Public’s Response
The TikTok clip opens with a slow‑motion shot of Trump walking across a white, snow‑covered field. The camera then cuts to a series of images and short video clips showing ICE officers in uniform, handcuffing individuals and escorting them into waiting vehicles. The transitions are rapid, and the soundtrack—“Make Them Now”—provides a pulsing backdrop that matches the clip’s tempo.
Within hours of the video’s release, the post was shared thousands of times and sparked a wave of commentary. Critics accused the White House of “political propaganda” and of using a popular music track to manipulate emotions. Some users pointed out that the video’s depiction of ICE actions could be interpreted as an endorsement of a controversial agency whose policies have been criticized for harsh treatment of migrants. Others argued that the use of Drake’s music without a license violated copyright law, potentially exposing the administration to legal challenges.
On the other side of the debate, supporters of the administration praised the video for its “bold” approach and for “highlighting the importance of border security.” They argued that the clip was a legitimate form of political communication and that the use of popular music was a common practice in political advertising.
Legal and Ethical Implications of Using Copyrighted Music
Using a copyrighted song in a public video—especially one that is distributed on a platform like TikTok—requires clearance from the rights holders. This typically involves obtaining a synchronization license, which grants permission to pair the music with visual content. The White House did not publicly disclose whether it secured such a license for “Make Them Now.”
Without proper clearance, the administration could face a lawsuit from the artist or the record label. In the past, several political campaigns have been sued for unauthorized use of music, leading to costly settlements and reputational damage. The fact that the video was shared on a platform that automatically removes copyrighted content unless it is licensed adds another layer of risk
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