Haitian Immigrants: President Joe Biden strongly dismissed unproven allegations that Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, are involved in abducting and consuming pets. The president called the rumors “completely false” and stated they have “no place in America.”
“This needs to stop,” Biden urged on Friday, emphasizing that such harmful rhetoric should be halted immediately. His comments indirectly addressed former President Donald Trump, who has amplified these baseless claims throughout the week.
Trump and his supporters have been spreading the false narrative that Haitian immigrants in Springfield are harming pets, a claim that remains unsubstantiated. Despite the lack of evidence, the rumor has gained traction, prompting the White House to speak out against it.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre echoed the president’s sentiments, calling for an end to the attacks on the Haitian community during a press briefing. She emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “It’s deeply troubling that a vulnerable community is facing such dangerous accusations. As the president made clear, this kind of divisive and hateful language has no place in our political discourse.”
Jean-Pierre, who has Haitian heritage herself, expressed her personal connection to the issue. “When any community, especially a vulnerable one, is targeted, it’s deeply painful—not just because I belong to that community, but because no one should face this type of attack,” she said.
Federal agencies have been working closely with local officials in Springfield since earlier this year to provide support to the immigrant population. Jean-Pierre highlighted that the government has set up clinics serving migrant communities nationwide, benefiting more than 37,000 individuals to date. Additionally, she noted that resources have been sent to Ohio to assist with the situation.
“We’ve worked directly with Springfield and local leaders to ensure they have the assistance they need,” Jean-Pierre added. “But we need more funding to continue this work, and unfortunately, Congress has blocked further support.”
She specifically pointed to Congressional Republicans, blaming them for halting bipartisan border legislation that could have provided essential resources to Springfield and similar cities. The legislation was stopped due to political maneuvering, with Republicans concerned it would benefit Biden.
“The former president opposed the bill because he felt it would hurt him politically and help Joe Biden,” Jean-Pierre explained. “This is not about politics—it’s about supporting communities in need.”
On Thursday, Jean-Pierre described the accusations against the Haitian immigrants as a “bizarre and hateful smear,” noting that local law enforcement has thoroughly debunked the claims. She also acknowledged the fear these rumors have instilled in the Haitian community, with many keeping their children home from school and fearing for their safety.
Biden reiterated Jean-Pierre’s concerns, stating, “It’s simply wrong. There’s no place for this in America.”
Springfield Mayor Rob Rue also addressed the issue, telling ABC News that the rumors are “factually untrue” and assuring residents that “your pets are safe in Springfield.” The city issued a statement confirming there have been no credible reports or specific allegations of pet abuse linked to the immigrant community.
These false accusations have sparked anxiety and division, but local and federal officials are working to protect both the Haitian community and broader public from the harmful effects of misinformation.
