The U.S. government has faced backlash for using songs by Radiohead and Kesha in promotional videos depicting immigration enforcement and military aircraft. Radiohead's song 'Let Down' was featured in a video released by the White House, which drew swift condemnation from the band due to the lack of consent for the use of their music. This incident reflects a broader trend since the inauguration of Donald Trump in January 2025, where numerous artists have protested against the unauthorized use of their songs, indicating a growing rift between the administration and the entertainment community.

Notably, Radiohead and Kesha's outrage adds to a long list of musical artists who have voiced their dissent against the Trump administration. Celebrities such as Céline Dion, Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, and the Rolling Stones have similarly expressed their discontent with how their music has been co-opted for purposes they do not support. This trend points to a significant divide between artists and political figures, where musicians assert their rights over their creative works and push back against political exploitation of their art.

This situation raises important questions about artistic ownership and consent in the digital age, especially as political campaigns increasingly turn to entertainment to bolster messages. The reactions from Radiohead and Kesha not only highlight individual artists' rights but also serve as a reminder of the ongoing cultural tensions surrounding music and its role in socio-political contexts, particularly during divisive political climates like that of the Trump era.