Immigration
In 2024 a lie about Springfield went national. Behind it was a real community, a real labor market, and a real town. We report on the place, not the myth.
Issue
Immigration
Springfield's Haitian community and the 2024 disinformation episode that put it on the map.
Stories
Anatomy of a Lie: How "Eating the Pets" Traveled From a Facebook Post to a Debate Stage
A false rumor about Springfield's Haitian community went from a deleted Facebook post to a presidential debate in 36 hours, and the trip added reach without ever adding proof.
04 July 2026
The July 1 Cliff: What Happens When 26,500 People Lose the Right to Work
Haitian work permits became invalid July 1, 2026, months before the election. DeWine called ending TPS a job killer for Ohio and for Springfield, breaking with national GOP policy.
04 July 2026