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In a growing controversy involving false conspiracy theories, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine strongly criticized baseless claims about Haitian immigrants, a narrative that has been widely amplified by former President Donald Trump and Ohio Senator JD Vance. The unfounded claims suggest that Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, have been involved in stealing and eating pets, a rumor that DeWine firmly denounced as “simply not true.”
DeWine’s Clear Stance Against Misinformation
Appearing on ABC’s This Week, DeWine emphasized the lack of evidence supporting these allegations, stating, “There’s no evidence of this at all.” He highlighted the fact that the Haitians in question are in the country legally and are working, debunking the conspiracy theories being spread. DeWine stressed the importance of moving forward, calling the ongoing conversation about immigrants eating pets “ridiculous” and harmful.
Trump and Vance’s Role in Amplifying the Claims
Despite these pleas for reason, both Trump and Vance have continued to promote the falsehoods, with Vance defending his stance on CNN’s State of the Union. This misinformation has led to a climate of fear in Springfield, resulting in bomb threats against schools and a local university canceling events due to safety concerns.
Rising Tensions as Election Approaches
As Ohio approaches a critical election period, the controversy over these conspiracy theories has shifted the focus from policy to damage control, with the Trump campaign organizing visits to Springfield. Governor DeWine, however, urged Trump to concentrate on real issues affecting Americans, rather than misleading narratives.
With just weeks before the election, the persistence of these rumors threatens to overshadow meaningful political discourse in a state long seen as a Republican stronghold.