The Pokémon Company Distances Itself From Trump Administration's Pokopia-Inspired Post

The company says it was not involved in the creation or distribution of the social media content using its intellectual property.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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The Pokémon Company International has issued a statement distancing itself from a recent social media post by the Trump administration that used imagery associated with the upcoming game Pokopia. The post featured the Pokopia logo but replaced the game's name with 'make america great again.' The Pokémon Company said it was not involved in the creation or distribution of this content and did not grant permission for the use of its intellectual property.

Why it matters

This is the latest instance of the Trump administration using popular video game brands and imagery to promote its political agenda, which the Pokémon Company has repeatedly stated it does not condone or affiliate with. The unauthorized use of Pokémon branding raises concerns about intellectual property rights and the politicization of beloved entertainment franchises.

The details

The social media post in question was shared on the White House X account and featured the distinctive Pokopia logo, but with 'make america great again' replacing the game's name. This template has become a viral trend among online gamers after a Pokémon fan created a Pokopia logo generator. However, the Pokémon Company says it was not involved and did not grant permission for the use of its intellectual property.

  • The Pokémon Company issued its statement on March 6, 2026, in response to the recent social media post.
  • In September, the Department of Homeland Security previously used the original Pokémon theme song and catchphrase without authorization.

The players

The Pokémon Company International

The company that owns the intellectual property rights to the Pokémon franchise and oversees its global operations.

Trump administration

The current presidential administration in the United States, led by former President Donald Trump, which has a history of using video game imagery and branding to promote its political agenda.

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What they’re saying

“We are aware of recent social content that includes imagery associated with our brand. We were not involved in its creation or distribution, and no permission was granted for the use of our intellectual property. Our mission is to bring the world together, and that mission is not affiliated with any political viewpoint or agenda.”

— Sravanthi Dev, Spokeswoman, The Pokémon Company International (New York Times)

What’s next

The Pokémon Company International is expected to take legal action to protect its intellectual property rights and prevent further unauthorized use of its branding by the Trump administration or any other entities.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between the Pokémon franchise, which aims to bring people together, and the Trump administration's efforts to use popular culture for political gain. It underscores the importance of respecting intellectual property rights and maintaining the integrity of beloved entertainment properties, even in the face of political agendas.