Taylor Swift’s ‘The Fate of Ophelia’ Sparks Backlash in White House TikTok Featuring Trump

The White House has stirred controversy after using Taylor Swift’s chart-topping song “The Fate of Ophelia” in a new pro-Trump TikTok video. The patriotic clip, posted on the official White House account, features images of President Donald Trump and his administration set to Swift’s hit song — despite Trump’s history of criticizing the pop icon.

This surprising choice immediately sparked reactions across social media, with fans calling it “ironic” and “tone-deaf,” given Trump’s past statements about Swift. Earlier this year, Trump posted on Truth Social that he “hated” Swift and questioned her popularity after she endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris during the 2024 presidential campaign.

White House Defends Video Featuring Taylor Swift’s Song

The White House’s TikTok video, which reportedly aimed to project patriotism and unity, uses Swift’s “The Fate of Ophelia” — her current No. 1 single from her 2025 album. However, the choice of soundtrack immediately drew attention due to the president’s documented criticism of Swift in the past.

In response to media inquiries, a White House official issued a pointed statement saying, “We made this video because we knew fake news media brands like Variety would breathlessly amplify them. Congrats, you got played.” The statement appears to confirm the administration’s awareness that the video would provoke strong reactions.

Representatives for Taylor Swift have not yet commented on the matter. The singer has previously denounced the use of her image or music in political campaigns without authorization, and she publicly opposed Trump’s policies during his presidency. Her endorsement of Kamala Harris in 2024 further deepened the political divide between her and the former president’s supporters.

Trump’s History of Anti-Swift Remarks

Trump’s public feud with Swift dates back several years. In 2024, he mocked her on Truth Social following her endorsement of Kamala Harris, writing, “Has anyone noticed that, since I said ‘I HATE TAYLOR SWIFT,’ she’s no longer ‘HOT?’” The comments fueled backlash from Swift’s fanbase and drew criticism from across the entertainment industry.

Despite that, Trump later softened his tone after Swift’s engagement to NFL star Travis Kelce. He told reporters that he wished the couple “a lot of luck,” describing both as “terrific people.” Still, his previous hostility toward Swift has made the White House’s use of her song in a promotional video especially controversial.

Public Reaction and Political Undercurrents

Social media users were quick to react, with hashtags like #OpheliaGate and #SwiftVsTrump trending on X and TikTok. Many fans questioned whether Swift had approved the song’s use and pointed out the political irony behind the soundtrack choice.

Swift’s supporters emphasized her consistent advocacy for artists’ rights and her opposition to unauthorized political use of her work. Political commentators have suggested that the video could be a deliberate attempt by Trump’s team to provoke engagement and drive media coverage — a strategy that has historically benefited his campaign visibility.

The controversy underscores the intersection of pop culture and politics once again, as Taylor Swift’s “The Fate of Ophelia” becomes an unexpected soundtrack to a new chapter in the Trump era.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Did Taylor Swift approve the use of her song in the White House TikTok?

No official confirmation has been provided. Swift’s representatives have not yet responded to requests for comment.

Q2: What is “The Fate of Ophelia” about?

The song is part of Taylor Swift’s 2025 album and explores themes of identity, loss, and reinvention. It reached No. 1 on major charts worldwide.

Q3: Why did Trump previously criticize Taylor Swift?

Trump criticized Swift after she endorsed Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election, claiming her popularity had declined since.

Q4: How did the White House respond to the backlash?

A spokesperson said they anticipated media reactions, suggesting the post was intended to draw attention and engagement.

Q5: What has been the reaction from fans?

Many fans expressed anger and disbelief online, accusing the administration of using Swift’s music without consent for political messaging.