In a decisive response to escalating threats against the community, Mayor Rob Rue, a Republican, announced Thursday that he is invoking temporary emergency powers to address public safety concerns fueled by the baseless claims of Donald Trump and his running mate, JD Vance, about Haitian immigrants.
The mayor’s proclamation allows for the mobilization of resources to enhance safety measures, stating, “This will enable departments to respond more efficiently to emerging risks, including civil unrest, cyber threats, and potential acts of violence.”
The city has been shaken by a wave of violent threats following Trump’s unfounded claims that Haitian immigrants are harming local pets. Since the recent presidential debate, officials report over 30 threats, prompting heightened security measures across Springfield.
In a worrying escalation, two Walmart locations were briefly evacuated at the request of local police on Wednesday. Other sites, including the Pregnancy Resource Center of Clark County and a Planned Parenthood center, also reported threats, according to local station WHIO.
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In light of these developments, several local colleges have shifted to remote learning, while state troopers have been deployed for added security. Mayor Rue emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “Ensuring the safety of Springfield’s residents is our top priority.”
Community leaders are expressing their concerns about the turmoil. Carl Ruby, pastor of Central Christian Church, described the atmosphere as “complete chaos” and urged Trump to reconsider his rhetoric. “I wish he would acknowledge that he was misinformed and ask those with hateful intentions to leave our city,” Ruby said.
Ruby also called for increased federal support for cities experiencing an influx of immigrants, highlighting the need for immediate funding to assist local resources.
The city’s population includes an estimated 12,000 to 15,000 immigrants from various backgrounds, with local officials clarifying that Haitian immigrants are in the U.S. legally under the Immigration Parole Program, initiated by the Biden administration in 2023.
As residents face ongoing fear, Trump and his running mate JD Vance show no signs of retreating from their controversial statements. At a rally on Wednesday, Trump criticized Mayor Rue for not expelling migrants and announced plans to visit Springfield within the next two weeks.
With Springfield on high alert, the community grapples with the implications of these threats and the divisive political narratives surrounding immigration.
