The Whitehouse posted a video to X on March 17, 2025, featuring a video of an illegal immigrant being deported. The short clip, which went massively viral, used the hit song ‘Closing Time’ by Semisonic. The pop trio issued a statement condemning the video, saying they did not authorize the use of the song. However, the comments section mocked them for their woke values.
Social media users took to the replies to support the President and his deportation agenda. Many accounts said that these types of actions were exactly what Trump promised his base. Others said that this was one of the funniest posts in recent memory.
The White House press secretary said, “Our entire government clearly is leaning into the message of this president.” She’s also taken swings at the activist judges who have tried to block Trump’s executive orders. Leavitt is a conservative firebrand who has made waves with her confident and principled responses to the press.
In a March 17, 2025 press release, she explained the scope of the issue. She said, “We have judges who are acting as partisan activists from the bench. They are trying to dictate policy from the POTUS. They are trying to clearly slow walk this administration’s agenda.”
Semisonic, a three-piece pop band from Minnesota, published their condemnation on X. The woke band said, “We did not authorize or condone the White House’s use of our song “Closing Time” in any way. And no, they didn’t ask. The song is about joy and possibilities and hope, and they have missed the point entirely.” Online users jumped on the chance to mock the work band.
One user quipped, “I feel very joyful and hopeful at the possibilities of a country without foreign gangs.” Another asked, “So, do I need your authorization to play your music at the bar right before closing time? How is that possibly legal without you “authorizing and condoning it?” I’m confused.” A reply read, “Well you just insured that I will never listen to you again. I thought music and art was meant to be interpreted by the person watching or listening?”
However, some woke social media users defended the band. One progressive account said, “The replies lol. Sorry folks semisonic doesn’t like your silly fascist sh*t where you make dumb videos about deporting people without due process.”
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Watch the clip here:
The original viral post featured the lyrics of the song. The caption read, “You don’t have to go home, but you can’t stay here.” Many users and government officials reacted positively to the post. Karoline Leavitt addressed the controversy in a press release, and the comment sections supported Leavit.
One user said, “I love it! The White House’s use of ‘Closing Time’ to send a message to would-be illegals is genius – finally, music that speaks straight to the heart (and border) of the issue. And with measurable results like 47% more ICE removals and processing times cut in half, Karoline Leavitt’s ‘streamlined deportation logistics’ are making America safer one song at a time. Now, can we get a soundtrack for the SEND THEM BACK Act? Asking for a friend…”
Featured image from embedded video