Racist Campaign Targets Haitian Immigrants in Ohio

In Springfield, Ohio, a viral false narrative claims that Haitian immigrants are stealing and consuming pets, which has been leveraged by Republicans, including Senator J.D. Vance and former President Trump, to criticize immigration policies and fuel xenophobic sentiments ahead of the upcoming presidential election. Despite no evidence supporting these claims, Vance admitted he had no proof while still encouraging the circulation of these rumors. Springfield's police have refuted the allegations, stating there have been no credible reports of such incidents. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine refrained from condemning the racist rhetoric, focusing instead on providing 'essential facts,' while acknowledging the significant influx of Haitian immigrants due to violence in Haiti. Critics argue that these attacks on Haitian immigrants represent a broader strategy by Republicans to incite fear and division among working-class voters. This campaign reflects historical patterns of nativist fearmongering tied to the eating habits of immigrant communities, reminiscent of past prejudices against other groups.