A group of ten House Republicans wrote a letter to top law enforcement and intelligence officials requesting weekly updates on foreign election interference following a series of “hoax” bomb threats in Springfield, Ohio. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine revealed that 33 fake bomb threats were made against hospitals, schools, and government offices in Springfield, originating from overseas. The Republicans demanded to know the country involved in the threats and what actions were being taken to combat social media campaigns, cyberespionage, and physical harm by foreign actors. Governor DeWine mentioned that many threats came from a specific country, although he did not disclose the name.
The letter, signed by Republican Reps. Jim Jordan, Mike Carey, Lance Gooden, and others, emphasized the impact of these hoaxes on the community, causing closures, evacuations, and added strain on police and social services due to the town’s influx of Haitian migrants. Former President Trump amplified unsubstantiated claims about Haitian migrants eating pets, further fueling tensions in Springfield. Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost criticized the federal government for not properly coordinating the resettlement of migrants, putting a strain on the town’s resources. The town canceled its annual celebration of diversity due to the increased threats.
Amid the influx of Haitian migrants and the bomb threats, Springfield’s Republican leadership expressed being overwhelmed by the situation. The town, with a population of 60,000, has been strained by the arrival of 15,000 to 20,000 Haitian migrants with temporary protected status. The federal government’s lack of coordination regarding the resettlement of migrants has stressed the schools, health care system, and safety net in Springfield. With at least 4,000 migrants receiving government assistance, the town’s resources are being stretched thin.
Russia and Iran have been previously accused of meddling in U.S. elections, with the Justice Department seizing websites and indicting Russian media employees for spreading misinformation. Governor DeWine noted that foreign actors making threats are trying to sow discord in the United States. He emphasized the importance of not letting the “bad guys” win and ensuring that schools remain open in Springfield. Additional law enforcement resources will be deployed to address the threats and maintain the safety and services expected by the citizens of Springfield.
Officials in Springfield, including city manager Bryan Heck and Ohio Department of Public Safety director Andy Wilson, have stressed that there are no credible reports of harm to pets within the immigrant community. Despite the cancelation of the town’s diversity celebration, efforts are being made to combat misinformation and maintain community services amidst the ongoing threats. The Republicans’ letter highlights the need for increased vigilance against foreign interference in U.S. elections and the importance of transparency in addressing such threats. It is evident that the situation in Springfield is complex and multifaceted, with various factors contributing to the tensions and challenges faced by the community.