Beyoncé is reportedly preparing to send a cease-and-desist order to Donald Trump’s presidential campaign over the unauthorized use of her song “Freedom.” The legal threat follows the Trump campaign’s use of the 2016 track in a video clip featuring Trump disembarking from an aircraft.
The clip, which has since been deleted, was posted on Twitter with the caption, “Touchdown in Michigan!! @realDonaldTrump,” and featured Beyoncé’s song playing in the background.
“Freedom” has also been used as an “unofficial campaign song” by Kamala Harris, appearing in her ads and social media content with Beyoncé’s permission. While Beyoncé has not formally endorsed Harris, sources have indicated that Beyoncé had planned to attend a Harris fundraiser after being informed about Trump’s Project 2025 plans.
This incident is not the first time the Trump campaign has faced criticism for using music without authorization. Earlier this month, Céline Dion’s team condemned the campaign for playing her hit song “My Heart Will Go On” at a rally in Montana. Dion’s representatives issued a statement saying, “In no way is this use authorized, and Céline Dion does not endorse this or any similar use. …And really, THAT song?”
