'They're eating cats...': Trump repeats rumors about immigrants during debate
During a televised debate with United States Vice President Kamala Harris, ex-President Donald Trump claimed that Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, were "eating the dogs" and "eating the cats" of residents. He added, "They're eating the pets of the people that live there...this is what's happening in our country, and it's a shame." However, co-moderator David Muir from ABC News fact-checked the statement, saying that Springfield's city manager reported no credible evidence of pets being harmed or abused by immigrants.
Why does this story matter?
Trump's remarks about immigrants allegedly consuming pets seem to have been sparked by a viral video in which a Springfield resident told the town council that immigrants had taken ducks from a local park for food. Despite the lack of evidence, the video gained traction on right-wing platforms. Prominent Trump supporters—including vice-presidential candidate JD Vance—referenced the meme, with Vance posting on X: "Reports...show that people have had their pets abducted and eaten by people who shouldn't be in this country."
Trump campaign doubles down on claim
During the debate, with Harris shaking her head in disbelief and laughing, he continued, "People are saying their dog was eaten by people." Shortly before the debate, the Trump campaign put a post on social media with a manufactured photograph of the former president shielding cats and geese in his arms. In an email to supporters, the Trump campaign had earlier pledged "the largest mass deportation operation in US history."
Trump's campaign targets Harris over immigration
Additionally, a press release issued by his campaign on the issue suggested that "Kamala Migrants Ravage Ohio City." To recall, Trump's campaign has been critical of Harris for her role in President Joe Biden's administration, particularly regarding the US-Mexico border. Notably, Springfield City Manager Bryan Heck's office also issued a statement dismissing these rumors.
Springfield city manager's office dismisses rumors
"In response to recent rumors alleging criminal activity by the immigrant population in our city, we wish to clarify that there have been no credible reports or specific claims of pets being harmed, injured or abused by individuals within the immigrant community," Heck's office said. Guerline Jozef, founder and executive director of the Haitian Bridge Alliance, warned that such false narratives could be dangerous for Haitians in the United States.
Haitian immigrants in Springfield under legal protection
Springfield, Ohio, a city of approximately 60,000 residents, has seen an increase in its Haitian community in recent years. The city estimates that the county's total immigrant population is around 15,000. These Haitian immigrants are legally present under a federal program that provides temporary protection due to unsafe conditions in Haiti. Last month, the Biden administration extended temporary legal status to about 300,000 Haitians in the US because of severe gang violence in Haiti.
