By Jeff Louderback Contributing Writer SPRINGFIELD, Ohio — Talk about Haitian migrants reportedly killing and eating cats and dogs catapulted Springfield, Ohio, onto the national stage, but the subject was rarely mentioned during Vivek Ramaswamy’s town hall there on Thursday. Most of the residents focused on concerns about the consistently growing Haitian population. They are frustrated over safety issues and a strain on resources, among other issues.
Several speakers at the town hall chastised city leaders for what they believe is a lack of interest in listening to their views. “We are at the stage right now where we’ve been put down and called racist, not only in print but also to our face at city commission meetings. Now we’re at a level of desperation,” Springfield resident Diana Daniels told Ramaswamy.
“If our city commission had come to us and listened to us, we probably wouldn’t need to be here. “I’m hopeful that the city commission will now understand that you cannot disregard your citizens because this is what you end up with when you ignore our voices.” A tech entrepreneur who grew up in Ohio and lives in suburban Columbus, Ramaswamy gained national attention when he ran for president in the Republican primary.
He eventually left the race, endorsed former President Donald Trump, and has actively campaigned for Trump. He said he made frequent visits to Springfield as a child and wanted to host an event where residents could be heard. Before the .