JD Vance admits creating stories for media attention, defends false claims about Haitian immigrants

JD Vance, the Republican vice-presidential candidate, revealed during an appearance on CNN’s State of the Union that he is willing “to create stories” to attract media attention, while defending his spread of false and racist claims about Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio. The remarks centered around rumors that Haitian migrants were abducting and eating pets, which Vance admitted to fabricating. “Yes!” Vance responded when host Dana Bash asked if the story was created by him, claiming he did so to highlight issues affecting Springfield’s Haitian population.

Vance’s comments were met with backlash from Democratic leaders, including US transportation secretary Pete Buttigieg. He called it a “remarkable confession,” saying Vance would lie to distract from key election issues like abortion rights and job creation. Vance also referred to Haitian residents in Springfield as “illegal,” despite most having legal status under the US’s Temporary Protected Status program.

The rumors about Springfield have incited bomb threats against local institutions, which Vance condemned, though he also blamed the media for amplifying these threats. Vance defended his claims, stating they were meant to highlight immigration policies under Kamala Harris, the current vice president.