During a vice presidential debate, Republican nominee JD Vance claimed that Vice President Kamala Harris’ open border policy had destroyed the lives of American citizens in Springfield, Ohio. He argued that undocumented immigrants were overwhelming local resources and driving up home prices, resulting in Americans losing out. Vance did not repeat former President Donald Trump’s claim that Haitian immigrants were eating cats and dogs, but continued to express concern over the impact of undocumented immigrants on American citizens.
Local officials in Springfield disputed Trump and Vance’s claims, stating that most Haitian migrants were there legally and contributing positively to the community. Despite pushback from Republican Mayor Rob Rue and Governor Mike DeWine, Vance continued to assert his position during the debate. When moderators attempted to fact-check the legal status of the Haitian migrants, Vance objected and argued against their protected status.
The debate grew heated, with Vance and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz speaking over moderators before their mics were cut. Moderators had warned at the beginning of the debate that they would cut mics to uphold rules. Vance’s statements reflect ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policy and its impact on local communities, with differing perspectives on the contributions and legal status of migrants in Springfield.
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