DHS Compares Migrants to Pokémon, Sparks Online Backlash

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is under fire after posting a video on X that likened apprehending migrants to the Pokémon phenomenon, using the franchise’s iconic slogan, “Gotta Catch ’Em All.” The video, which featured raids, arrests, and mock Pokémon-style trading cards displaying mugshots of migrants, has sparked widespread criticism for ethical and potential copyright violations.

The video included the Pokémon theme song in the background, and DHS even styled its name in the franchise’s font. Individual migrants were shown on “trading cards,” including criminal records and nationality, such as Lorenzo Menendez-Gonzalez, convicted of homicide in Texas, and Moises Lopez-Zepeda, convicted of intoxicated manslaughter. A GIF of Pikachu labelled “Border Patrol’s newest recruit” also accompanied the post.

Social Media Backlash and Legal Concerns

Social media users reacted strongly to the video. One user wrote, “Please tell me my tax dollars aren’t going to graphic designers to make Pokémon-themed ICE propaganda.” Another question was whether Pokémon’s intellectual property could be legally used by a federal agency without permission. Newsweek reports that the franchise has been contacted for comment.

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Experts in immigration policy also criticised the video, highlighting concerns about a raid featured in the footage: “The door DHS shows being blown in…was at a home where multiple U.S. citizens lived. They were never shown a warrant and were handcuffed and led out into the light of the fleet of cameras [Homeland Security Secretary] Kristi Noem brought to the raid for PR.”

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The post comes amid the Trump administration’s aggressive deportation campaign, which aims to remove millions of undocumented immigrants. DHS has highlighted arrests of migrants with criminal records in an effort to justify these actions. However, critics argue that using a playful and iconic video game theme trivialises the seriousness of deportation and fosters a disturbing narrative around immigration enforcement.

Gotta Catch ‘Em All. pic.twitter.com/qCvflkJGmB

— Homeland Security (@DHSgov) September 22, 2025

Ethical and Cultural Repercussions

Legal analysts warn that DHS’s use of Pokémon branding could constitute copyright infringement. Ethically, equating migrant apprehension to catching virtual creatures has drawn condemnation for dehumanising immigrants and turning immigration enforcement into a form of entertainment.

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The controversy also raises broader questions about the use of pop culture by federal agencies for political messaging. Many observers see the approach as tone-deaf, particularly given the sensitive context of migrant families and communities impacted by deportation.

As of now, DHS has not issued a public response addressing the backlash. Meanwhile, the video continues to circulate on social media, prompting heated debates over legality, morality, and the appropriateness of using a beloved children’s brand in official government communications.