Pop star Sabrina Carpenter and the publisher of the popular Canadian children’s character Franklin the turtle have both denounced the Trump administration’s use of their music and imagery to further its agenda.
Sabrina Carpenter took to Twitter to express her disapproval of her song “Juno” being featured in a video montage showcasing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids. She condemned the video, calling it “evil and disgusting,” and made it clear that she did not want her music associated with such inhumane actions.
Similarly, Kids Can Press, the Canadian publisher of Franklin the turtle, criticized a post by U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth that depicted Franklin holding a bazooka aimed at boats. The publisher stated that they condemn the unauthorized use of Franklin’s image, emphasizing Franklin’s values of kindness, empathy, and inclusivity.
Responding to the situation, a Pentagon spokesperson remarked on the irony of associating Franklin with drug cartels and narco-terrorists, highlighting the character’s positive attributes.
The Trump administration’s actions in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean, targeting boats suspected of drug trafficking, have led to numerous objections from various artists, including Abba, Bruce Springsteen, Rihanna, and many more, who have opposed the use of their music and copyright material for political purposes.