Semisonic Criticizes White House for Using 'Closing Time' in Deportation Video
Peter Doocy from Fox News reports on the ongoing legal issues surrounding the deportation of alleged gang members. Recently, the band Semisonic expressed their disapproval of the White House using their song "Closing Time" in a deportation video.
The video, shared on the official accounts of the White House and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), featured the well-known '90s track. The White House highlighted the lyrics, "You don’t have to go home but you can’t stay here," while CBP added, "It's closing time. We are making America safe again."
Semisonic stated that the White House did not seek permission to use their song. In a statement, the band clarified that they did not support the video's message, saying the administration misunderstood the song's intent, which is about joy and hope.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the video, describing it as an accurate reflection of the administration's immigration policy. She emphasized the administration's commitment to its immigration strategy, noting the president's strong mandate for a significant deportation initiative.
Semisonic joins other artists like Foo Fighters, Celine Dion, Beyoncé, and ABBA, who have objected to the use of their music by President Donald Trump. However, the Village People reversed their stance in 2024, praising Trump for bringing joy with their songs.
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