This chapter investigates the unfounded rumor of pet kidnappings involving Haitian migrants in Springfield, Ohio, fueled by social media influence. It highlights the pervasive effects of misinformation on public perception and the intertwining narratives of immigration, conspiracy theories, and political rhetoric leading to the 2024 election.
No, Haitian immigrants aren’t eating anyone’s pets. USA Today-Ohio’s Erin Glynn and the Verge’s Gaby Del Valle explain why Republicans are talking about it anyway.
This episode was produced by Haleema Shah, edited by Matt Collette, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Noel King.
Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast
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