JD Vance Stands by Controversial Claims About Haitian Immigrants, Sparking Debate

Republican vice presidential candidate JD Vance defended controversial statements about Haitian immigrants during a Sunday interview on CNN’s “State of the Union,” asserting that these claims are based on constituent reports despite lacking evidence.

In the interview with Dana Bash, Vance reiterated his assertion that Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, have been involved in disturbing activities, including allegedly consuming pets. Vance claimed that his comments, which include promoting cat memes, are intended to draw media attention to what he describes as the media’s neglect of these issues.

“The American media totally ignored this stuff until Donald Trump and I started talking about cat memes. If I have to create stories so that the American media actually pays attention to the suffering of the American people, then that’s what I’m going to do,” Vance said. When Bash pointed out that he admitted to creating the story, Vance clarified, “I say that we’re creating a story, meaning we’re creating the American media focusing on it.”

Vance attributed the influx of immigrants to policies set by Vice President Kamala Harris, asserting that the focus on these issues is necessary. “I didn’t create 20,000 illegal migrants coming into Springfield thanks to Kamala Harris’ policies. Her policies did that,” he added.

According to the city of Springfield, approximately 12,000 to 15,000 immigrants reside in Clark County, with Haitian immigrants participating legally in a parole program that allows family members to join citizens and lawful residents in the U.S.

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, a fellow Republican, sharply refuted Vance’s claims during an appearance on ABC’s “This Week.” DeWine emphasized that there is no evidence supporting the rumor of immigrants eating pets and praised the Haitian community for their contributions. “No. Absolutely not,” DeWine said. “The Haitians who are in Springfield are legal. They came to Springfield to work.”

Vance later acknowledged the possibility that his claims might not be entirely accurate but encouraged his supporters to continue sharing “cat memes.” Springfield Mayor Rob Rue condemned the false claims, stating they are damaging to the community and expressing frustration that Vance is involved in spreading them.

Vance denied that his rhetoric has incited threats against local hospitals, asserting that his comments are meant to highlight the grievances of his constituents. “All that I’ve done is surface the complaints of my constituents, people who are suffering because of Kamala Harris’ policies,” Vance said.

Governor DeWine recognized the challenges of accommodating the increased population but assured that officials are actively addressing these issues. “When you go from a population of 58,000 and add 15,000 people onto that, you’re going to have some challenges and some problems,” DeWine said.

Vance concluded by emphasizing the importance of addressing the concerns raised by his constituents, even if they are controversial. “My attitude is, listen to my constituents. Sometimes they’re going to say things that people don’t like,” he said.