During a recent presidential debate, Donald Trump made baseless accusations against Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, claiming they were involved in pet abductions. This prompted responses from local officials and led to bomb threats referencing Haitian immigrants, further fueling a climate of fear and misinformation. Experts highlight that this rhetoric mirrors historical xenophobic narratives and emphasizes the long-standing discrimination faced by Haitian migrants, who have significantly contributed to the local economy. Despite studies showing that migrants generally have lower crime rates than U.S.-born citizens, politicians like Ohio Senator J.D. Vance perpetuate harmful stereotypes, which some critics argue distract from real issues. The Haitian community in Springfield, which arrived largely legally under Temporary Protected Status, is essential for revitalizing the city's economy. Overall, the incident reflects a troubling trend of scapegoating immigrants amidst political discourse.