The Republican mayor of Springfield, Ohio, has expressed concerns about the impact on the city’s resources if former President Donald Trump proceeds with a planned visit. Mayor Rob Rue stated on Tuesday that accommodating Trump’s visit would place an “extreme strain” on the city’s capabilities, suggesting it would be preferable if the visit did not occur.
This statement follows NBC News reports indicating Trump’s intention to visit Springfield “soon,” based on information from a source close to his planning. Trump recently promoted a debunked narrative during a presidential debate, alleging that Haitian immigrants in Springfield were “eating the dogs” and cats of local residents—a claim widely discredited by local authorities.
Springfield officials have firmly denied the allegations, with city police issuing a statement asserting that there have been “no credible reports” of Haitian immigrants harming pets. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, a fellow Republican, has dismissed the claims as “garbage” and visited Springfield on Tuesday in response to multiple hoax bomb threats that have caused temporary school closures and building evacuations.
While DeWine noted that a presidential campaign visit is generally well-received, he acknowledged that it would place significant demands on the city’s already stretched resources. DeWine also mentioned that he has not discussed the potential visit with Trump or his running mate, Senator JD Vance, and has no knowledge of any firm plans for such a trip.
In response to inquiries, Trump campaign spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt highlighted what she described as “very real problems” facing Springfield residents, including high rent, strained public services, and increased safety concerns due to a purported influx of migrants. She reiterated Trump’s commitment to addressing these issues.
Senator Vance, who has also endorsed the false claims, informed reporters that he has not scheduled any visit to Springfield and emphasized that safety would be a primary concern if such plans were to be made.
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