WASHINGTON — JD Vance, the Republican vice presidential candidate, stood firm on Sunday regarding unsubstantiated claims that Haitian migrants in an Ohio community are involved in the abduction and consumption of pets, despite a lack of evidence as stated by Ohio’s GOP governor and other officials.
Vance, an Ohio senator, responded to concerns expressed by his constituents in Springfield, asserting that at least ten cases were “verifiable.” During multiple news interviews, he reiterated his assertions to highlight what he described as lax immigration policies under the current administration, stating, “Everyone who has dealt with a large influx of migration knows that cultural practices can sometimes seem foreign to many Americans.”
Local and state officials have rejected these claims, asserting they misrepresent the city and have led to unfounded fears after Trump referenced the unproven allegations in a recent presidential debate, specifically naming Springfield. Subsequently, the area faced bomb threats that necessitated the evacuation of schools and government buildings, some of which mentioned the increased number of migrants.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine condemned these claims, stating, “This is a piece of garbage that simply isn’t true. There is no evidence to support it.”
He further emphasized: “We know that the Haitians in Springfield are legally in the U.S. They came to work, and their contributions are vital to our economy. Companies have praised them as excellent workers, driving positive developments in our community.”
The narrative continues to be a focal point of Trump’s campaign, illustrating a willingness among some Republicans to amplify misinformation as part of an anti-immigrant agenda promoted throughout his electoral endeavors.
“Whatever the local mayor has said, I am hearing from many constituents who are genuinely concerned,” Vance stated.
He added: “We are not opposed to Haitian migrants seeking a better life; our frustration lies with the policies that have allowed this narrative to emerge regarding a small Ohio town.”
Approximately 15,000 immigrants have settled in Springfield, a predominantly white, blue-collar city of around 60,000 people, over recent years.
Officials in Springfield confirmed that the Haitian immigrants are legally in the U.S. through a federal program permitting temporary residency. Recently, the administration has granted temporary legal status to about 300,000 Haitians already in the country, recognizing the perilous situation in Haiti due to pervasive gang violence.
When questioned about whether he believed the accusations were false, Vance responded: “If I need to craft narratives to ensure this issue gains the media’s attention, then I will do so. My aim is to shed light on the challenges faced by the American people.”
