The Department of Homeland Security faces backlash over a controversial video.
Sept. 24 2025, Published 3:30 p.m. ET
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is facing severe criticism following what many view as a misguided attempt to garner public support through social media. On September 22, 2025, the DHS released a video parodying the popular franchise Pokémon to highlight their ICE deportation efforts, which has since created a stir online.
The DHS team posted the video on X, incorporating elements from the beloved Pokémon series, including clips and music, aiming to connect with their audience in a humorous yet controversial way.
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DHS’s Content and Public Reaction
DHS attempted to boast about their raids with the Pokémon theme.
The video featured the iconic Pokémon theme song, alongside five fictionalized Pokémon character cards that listed individuals the DHS has arrested, labeling them as the “worst of the worst.” Each card noted the alleged criminals’ weaknesses with an emoji representing ice.
The post was aggressively tagged with the phrase, “Gotta Catch ’Em All,” which led to mixed responses—Customs and Border Protection (CBP) even chimed in with a GIF of Pikachu dancing, humorously suggesting he was “Border Patrol’s newest recruit.” However, not everyone appreciated the attempt at humor.
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Many social media users expressed outrage, urging Nintendo to intervene. Comments ranged from skepticism about the legality of the DHS using Pokémon’s branding to more aggressive critiques.
One user quipped, “Nintendo lawyers don’t sleep,” while another remarked, “Nintendo should sue you—fascists have no business invoking one of the most beloved franchises ever. You are the antithesis of everything it stands for.” A further reaction suggested that the DHS’s move was reminiscent of Nazi propaganda, showcasing a significant backlash against the parody approach.
The Pokémon Company International responded, declaring: “We are aware of a recent video posted by the Department of Homeland Security that includes imagery and language associated with our brand. Our company was not involved in the creation or distribution of this content, and permission was not granted for the use of our intellectual property.”
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DHS’s parody was criticized for its poor taste while attempting to engage the public.
The fallout didn’t stop there. Comedian Theo Von also found himself at odds with the DHS for using one of his previous videos to amplify their messaging about deportations. He tweeted, “Yooo DHS, I didn’t approve to be used in this.” Von emphasized that his views on immigration are complex and nuanced, far beyond what the DHS video portrayed. Soon after, the controversial post was deleted from the DHS account.
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The Pokémon Company confirmed it did not authorize DHS to utilize their intellectual property.
READ MORE ON POLITICS NEWS
Although some supporters of Secretary Kristi Noem claim she is doing a fine job, she has faced severe scrutiny for attempting to glamorize her role within ICE. Criticism has come even from conservative figures, questioning her appropriateness in such portrayals. Megyn Kelly remarked, “Stop trying to glamorize the mission and put yourself in the middle of it…” Noem’s continued effort to project strength has been met with mixed feelings, with questions surrounding her authenticity and motivations.
As the story unfolds, it becomes evident that the intersection of humor, policy, and public perception is a delicate balance—one the DHS seemingly underestimated.
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