Radiohead Condemns ICE for Illegally Using ‘Let Down’ in Racist Social Media Campaign

Radiohead, a British alternative rock band, has issued a statement condemning the Trump administration for using its music in a social media video. The band criticized Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for incorporating their song “Let Down” from the group’s seminal 1997 album “OK Computer” into a February 18 post on X.

The ICE post reads: “Thousands of American families have been torn apart because of criminal illegal alien violence,” followed by “American citizens raped and murdered by those who have no right to be in our country,” and concludes with, “This is who we fight for. This is our why.”

In a blistering response, Radiohead demanded that the individuals managing the ICE social media account remove the content. The band stated: “We demand that the amateurs in control of the ICE social media account take it down. It ain’t funny, this song means a lot to us and other people, and you don’t get to appropriate it without a fight. Go [expletive] yourself.”

The Department of Homeland Security countered by emphasizing compassion for victims of illegal immigration crimes. Deputy Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis stated: “We fight for the Laken Riley, Jocelyn Nungaray, Rachel Morin, Katie Abraham, and countless other American victims of illegal alien crime.” She added: “Where is the compassion for the mothers, fathers, sons, and daughters of Americans who have been brutally raped and murdered by criminal illegal aliens?”

The issue has drawn further attention as other musicians have spoken out against ICE’s use of their music. In November, ICE posted a video featuring Olivia Rodrigo’s song, prompting her to write: “Don’t ever use my songs to promote your racist, hateful propaganda.” The Department of Homeland Security responded with: “America is grateful all the time for our federal law enforcement officers who keep us safe. We suggest Ms. Rodrigo thank them for their service, not belittle their sacrifice.”