Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has taken a stand against former President Donald Trump and Senator JD Vance for spreading unfounded rumors about the city of Springfield and its residents. DeWine expressed his disappointment in the repeated claims lacking evidence that have been made by Trump and Vance, which he believes disparage the legal migrants living in Springfield.
DeWine highlighted the positive impact of Haitian migrants on Springfield's economy, attributing part of the city's resurgence in manufacturing and job creation to their presence over the past three years. He emphasized that these migrants are in the city legally and are there to work, contributing to the local community.
While DeWine and Springfield's mayor, Rob Rue, have been cautious in their criticism of Trump and Vance, they have expressed concerns about the potential consequences of a visit by the former president. Rue specifically mentioned worries about the impact of divisive rhetoric on the city, especially in light of recent bomb threats following false claims made by Trump about Haitian immigrants during a presidential debate.
DeWine, who has deep roots in Springfield, defended his hometown against the negative portrayals circulating in social media and the media. He described the Springfield he knows as a proud and resilient community that deserves recognition for its strengths and contributions to America.
As tensions continue to rise between political leaders and the local community in Springfield, DeWine's stance serves as a reminder of the importance of factual and respectful discourse in public discourse.