President Joe Biden has publicly condemned former President Donald Trump for his derogatory comments about Haitian immigrants, labeling the Republican nominee’s remarks as “simply wrong.”
During a Black Excellence brunch hosted at the White House on Friday, Biden refuted Trump’s baseless assertion, made during the presidential debate, that Haitian immigrants are stealing and consuming pets. This falsehood has also been propagated by other top-tier Republicans, including vice presidential candidate Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio).
“I want to take a moment to say something. Like so many Americans — like [press secretary] Karine [Jean-Pierre], as you point out, a proud Haitian American, a community that’s under attack in our country right now,” Biden said. “This has to stop — what he’s doing — has to stop.”
Biden’s statement came at the conclusion of Congressional Black Caucus Week, during which he expressed gratitude for the support he has received from the Black community throughout his political career. He also acknowledged the significant role Black Americans have played in the nation’s history and development.
Vice President Kamala Harris was unable to attend the brunch due to scheduling conflicts, but Biden mentioned that she had intended to be present.
This incident follows a series of controversial statements made by Trump during a televised debate with Vice President Harris. Trump alleged that immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, were abducting and consuming pets. Harris responded by labeling Trump “extreme” and laughed at his comments. The debate, held at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, was the first and potentially only face-off between Trump and Harris. During the debate, Trump focused on immigration issues, blaming the Biden administration for a perceived increase in crime and drug problems due to their immigration policies.
Biden’s strong condemnation of Trump’s comments highlights the increasing tensions surrounding immigration and the role of race in American politics. It also underscores the importance of combating misinformation and promoting understanding and respect within the community.