Springfield mayor gives himself emergency powers amid false migrant claim controversy

Springfield, Ohio, Mayor Rob Rue issued an emergency proclamation Thursday allowing the city to address public safety concerns more quickly following false claims from former President Trump and his running mate, Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio), that Haitian immigrants in the city are eating residents’ pets.

“Ensuring the safety of Springfield’s residents is our top priority,” Rue said in a statement reported by Spectrum News. “We are addressing these threats with the seriousness they warrant and are taking immediate steps to ensure the security of both our community and our employees. Our commitment to preventing harm is unwavering.”

According to a press release from Rue’s office, the emergency powers will remain in effect until public safety risks have ended.

The proclamation comes after Trump falsely claimed that Haitian immigrants in Springfield were eating pets during the presidential debate against Vice President Harris more than a week ago. Trump and Vance have repeatedly amplified the now-debunked theory, fueling a media firestorm and growing fears in the city, particularly among its Haitian population.

CNN reported Monday that Springfield has received more than 30 bomb threats, and at least two schools and two colleges temporarily closed amid the threats.

And Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine (R) announced Monday that he would be sending state Highway Patrol officers to monitor schools.

“Many of these threats are coming in from overseas, made by those who want to fuel the current discord surrounding Springfield. We cannot let the bad guys win,” DeWine said Monday.

However, DeWine did not blame Trump for the recent wave of bomb threats, saying the Biden administration’s border and immigration policies are legitimate issues to debate, The Hill reported Tuesday.

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