Trump insists. But no, Haitian migrants are not eating pets in Ohio

Hours before the presidential debate that faced Donald Trump and Kamala Harris this Tuesday night, the Republican made clear what intentions he came to the appointment with. On his social network, Trump posted a AI-generated montage in which he is seen surrounded by cats and ducks inside what looks like a private plane. A further step increasing the disinformation that has been growing since last September 9, when the candidate’s campaign spread the unfounded claim that migrants originally from Haiti had stolen several pets and eaten them in Springfield, Ohio.

The lie was part of a campaign strategy to criticize Vice President Kamala Harris on the immigration problems facing the United States. In a campaign press release, the false claim was repeated as a warning, suggesting that such incidents could soon affect other cities if action is not taken and Harris takes office. Such a narrative was also amplified by J.D. Vance, Trump’s running mate and junior senator from Ohio, who has been outspoken about his opposition to the rise of migrant communities in the country.

Vance claimed on social media that “reports now show that people have had their pets abducted and eaten by people who shouldn’t be in this country.” This claim was based on anecdotal reports from local residents, but Vance did not provide any concrete evidence to back up his claims. The senator’s comments were intended to capitalize on local fears about immigration and portray the situation as chaotic. However, these claims are unsubstantiated and Vance’s office offered no evidence to support the allegations.

Local authorities in Springfield denied these allegations. Karen Graves, city spokesperson, clarified that there were “absolutely no credible reports” of pets being damaged or stolen by members of the immigrant community. Leann Castillo, executive director of the Clark County Park District, confirmed that there was no evidence to support them. Castillo noted that the rumor had been circulating for months and that concerned citizens frequently inquired about it, but that there was no verified information to back it up.

Since the pandemic, the city of Springfield has seen a significant influx of Haitian immigrants, with estimates suggesting as many as 20,000 new arrivals. This migration has been spurred by the current crisis in Haiti, with political instability and gang violence. While the arrival of these immigrants has contributed to the revitalization of Springfield, it has also put pressure on local services such as housing, schools and healthcare.

The version that Haitian immigrants kidnap and eat pets is based on old and discredited stereotypes accusing them of cannibalism and ritual practices. These claims have previously been used to discredit immigrants and other marginalized groups. In 2021, former President Trump made disparaging remarks about Haitian immigrants, claiming they spread disease and referred to the country in derogatory terms.

The fake news spread thanks to viral posts and the support of right-wing commentators. For example, conservative pundit Charlie Kirk helped fuel the hoax, amplifying its spread and increasing public anxiety. Figures such as Ted Cruz and Elon Musk —who owns the social network X— also promoted claims to this effect.

The White House responds

The White House sharply criticized J.D. Vance’s unsubstantiated claims about Haitian immigrants in Springfield and warned that such fake news is “dangerous” and promotes conspiracy theories that could incite anti-immigration violence. John Kirby, spokesman for the National Security Council, stressed that misinformation can have serious consequences. Kirby stressed that the real concern should be how to address the crisis in Haiti, rather than fomenting divisions based on lies and racial prejudice.

Yet Vance continues to promote the claims. This Monday, he posted on X that his office had received many complaints from Springfield residents about alleged harm to pets by immigrants. While the senator acknowledged the possibility that the rumors are false, he insisted that the discussion must continue and dismissed media criticism.