Pokemon Denies Permission for DHS Deportation Video

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security posted a viral video on X and the White House TikTok that spliced Pokémon anime clips and the theme song with real ICE arrest footage and mock “Gotta Catch ’Em All” trading cards to illustrate deportation raids. Pokémon Company International said it did not authorize use of its song, imagery or slogan and publicly distanced itself from the clip. The video, which has been viewed millions of times, drew intense online backlash and criticism from public figures including comedian Theo Von and singer Jess Glynne. DHS declined to address Pokémon’s copyright concerns and issued a terse statement defending its immigration enforcement message.