White House Faces Backlash for Using Jet2 Ad in ICE Video

The White House is under significant scrutiny after posting a controversial video featuring ICE deportation flights set to a popular audio clip from a Jet2 Holidays advertisement. The video, shared on July 29, 2025, on the administration’s official social media accounts, depicts handcuffed individuals being led onto a plane while a cheerful voiceover exclaims, “Nothing beats a Jet2 holiday,” alongside singer Jess Glynne‘s upbeat track “Hold My Hand.” The accompanying caption read: “When ICE books you a one-way Jet2 holiday to deportation. Nothing beats it!”

The audio originally comes from a promotional campaign for the European budget airline, which has gained traction as a meme on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, typically associated with humorous travel mishaps. Critics of the White House’s use of the audio argue that combining it with footage of deportations trivializes a serious and often traumatic experience for those impacted. Social media reactions have spanned the political spectrum, with users condemning the post as “tone-deaf” and “dehumanizing.”

Criticism from Artists and Airlines

In response to the video, Jess Glynne expressed her dismay on Instagram, stating, “This post honestly makes me feel sick. My music is about love, unity and spreading positivity – never about division or hate.” Additionally, Zoë Lister, the voice actor featured in the original Jet2 advertisement, criticized the White House for appropriating the ad’s content for such a purpose.

A spokesperson for Jet2 and Jet2 Holidays released a statement to UK media, distancing the airline from the post and expressing disappointment over the association with the government’s messaging. “Our branding has become something of a viral phenomenon this summer and we are pleased to see how many people have used it in good humour,” the spokesperson said. “This is not endorsed by us in any way, and we are very disappointed to see our brand being used to promote government policy such as this.”

Political Context and Public Reaction

This incident occurs amid an intensified immigration enforcement strategy under the Trump administration, which has included expanded ICE operations and plans for mass deportations. While the White House has not issued an apology or removed the video, the backlash highlights the challenges of utilizing light-hearted internet culture to advocate for stringent governmental policies.

The controversy has sparked widespread debate about the ethics of using entertainment media in serious political contexts. Observers note that the juxtaposition of a cheerful holiday advertisement with the grim reality of deportation raises important questions about sensitivity and respect for those affected by immigration issues.

As this situation unfolds, the implications of blending popular culture with serious governmental actions continue to resonate, prompting discussions about the responsibilities of public figures and institutions in their messaging.