The White House on Thursday mocked folk-pop singer Noah Kahan after he expressed outrage over the Trump administration's use of his song "American Cars" in an official Instagram post highlighting American manufacturing. The post featured President Donald Trump touring a General Motors test facility in Michigan.
Kahan, known for his album "Stick Season," responded in the comment section of the post, stating, "Would never approve of my music being used in support of you or this administration." His co-writer on the song also reportedly reacted strongly to Kahan's objection.
The White House Office of Digital Strategy responded on X, formerly Twitter, with a jab at Kahan, writing, "Symptoms of TDS apparently include having a northern attitude." The post referenced Kahan's popular song "Northern Attitude," which has garnered over 700 million streams. "TDS," a term frequently used by conservatives, stands for Trump Derangement Syndrome and describes hostility towards the president.
Following the exchange, Instagram listed the audio for the White House's original post as "unavailable."
Kahan joins a list of musicians who have objected to political campaigns or administrations using their music. Previous instances include Olivia Rodrigo, who condemned the White House and Department of Homeland Security for using her song in a post encouraging illegal immigrants to self-deport, and Katy Perry, who stated she did not approve of her song "Firework" being used over footage of military strikes.
Kahan has primarily focused on advocacy for mental health resources through his "Busyhead Project," a non-profit organization aimed at destigmatizing mental health and improving access to resources. Vermont Gov. Phil Scott declared Sept. 19 "Noah Kahan's Busyhead Project Day" in recognition of his efforts.
Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger has also weighed in on the use of music in political contexts, suggesting that fans seek an escape at concerts and do not wish to be lectured on politics.