The official White House TikTok account has recently posted a video that quickly became the center of controversy. The clip featured actual footage of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrests combined with scenes and music from the iconic Pokémon anime theme song. The unusual pairing of law enforcement operations with a nostalgic childhood franchise has left the internet divided.

The Iconic Pokémon Theme Song

When the English version of the Pokémon anime launched in the late 1990s, it introduced fans to the unforgettable theme “Gotta Catch ’Em All!” While later seasons featured new songs, this original anthem remains the most beloved. Over the years, it has been endlessly parodied, remixed, and reused in memes, TikTok edits, and pop culture references. Its recognition factor makes it an easy attention-grabber — but this time, its use has sparked criticism at the highest level.

What the Video Showed

The TikTok video posted on September 22 used Homeland Security footage of ICE arrests intercut with Ash Ketchum and Poké Balls being thrown. The ending displayed what looked like trading cards representing individuals allegedly involved in crimes. This blending of entertainment and government communication was unexpected, leading to strong and polarized reactions online.

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Mixed Reactions Across Social Media

The video quickly went viral, gathering more than 98,000 likes and over 100,000 shares within hours. However, the comment section revealed just how divided the audience was. Some criticized the White House for trivializing serious arrests, with one top comment demanding that Nintendo take legal action. Others accused the government of using the content as a distraction from unrelated controversies, while one user described the attempt as “shameful leadership.”

On the other side, some viewers defended the creativity behind the post. Comments praised the social media team, suggesting that they deserved a raise for their boldness. One even claimed this type of unconventional communication was exactly what they had voted for. This sharp split in public opinion highlights how modern political messaging often walks a fine line between relatability and controversy.

Politics, Gaming, and TikTok

This isn’t the first time politics and video games have intersected. Previous administrations have often criticized gaming culture. Former President Trump, during his term, linked violent video games to mass shootings and called for regulation. More recently, political figures like RFK Jr. suggested that video games could contribute to societal violence. At the same time, TikTok has remained a hot topic in U.S. politics, facing multiple threats of bans over concerns about data security and foreign influence.

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The White House video is therefore not just about Pokémon. It highlights how deeply gaming culture and social platforms like TikTok are woven into modern political communication, and how quickly these tools can spark debate.

Response from Nintendo and The Pokémon Company

As of now, neither Nintendo nor The Pokémon Company has issued any official statement regarding the White House’s use of the theme song. Considering both companies are typically protective of their intellectual property, many are watching closely to see if there will be legal or public relations consequences. The silence so far only adds to the speculation and discussion happening online.

Final Thoughts

The blending of Pokémon nostalgia with government messaging has proven to be a bold — and divisive — move. For some, it was humorous and innovative. For others, it was tone-deaf and inappropriate. Regardless of where people stand, one thing is certain: the video succeeded in grabbing attention, sparking conversation, and once again proving that internet culture and politics are more closely connected than ever.