Semisonic Condemn White House’s Use of “Closing Time” in Deportation Video: “We Did Not Authorize or Condone”

In a truly gross video posted by the White House’s official Twitter account on Monday, Semisonic’s hit song “Closing Time” plays over footage of the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) handcuffing and searching detainees. In response, Semisonic has confirmed that they did not “authorize or condone” the use of the track.

“We did not authorize or condone The White House’s use of our song in any way. And no, they didn’t ask,” the band told Consequence in a statement. “The song is about joy and possibilities and hope, and they have missed the point entirely.”

In the caption of the video, The White House tagged CBP’s official account and quoted well-known lyrics from “Closing Time:” “🎶You don’t have to go home but you can’t stay here🎶.” The same lyrics are featured in the 17-second video. See the post below.

Donald Trump and his administration have a long history of using music without permission, from The White Stripes to Rufus Wainwright and beyond.

🎶You don't have to go home but you can't stay here🎶 @CBP pic.twitter.com/yWWhlvKQrb

— The White House (@WhiteHouse) March 17, 2025